Reflected rays of light upon Freemasonry, or, the ... - Brock University
Reflected rays of light upon Freemasonry, or, the ... - Brock University
Reflected rays of light upon Freemasonry, or, the ... - Brock University
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JAMES A GIBSON LIBRART<br />
BROCK UNIVERSITY<br />
ST. CATHARINES ON
MASONIC<br />
DEPOT.<br />
The Largest Stock <strong>of</strong> any House in <strong>the</strong> Trade <strong>of</strong><br />
Aprons, Sashes, Jewels, Tassels, Fringes, Rosettes,<br />
Letters, Figure Ornaments, Apron and Diploma Cases,<br />
Lodge and Chapter Furniture, W<strong>or</strong>king Tools, Books,<br />
and every requisite f<strong>or</strong> all Degrees in <strong>Freemasonry</strong>.<br />
(Kmbroibtrg : flgolir, Pilfer, Silk, & S&owtefc.<br />
REGALIA, BANNERS, FLAGS, BANNERETS,<br />
And every requisite f<strong>or</strong> all Societies.<br />
Bunting and Silk Patterns Dyed and Sewed, Union Jacks,<br />
Ensigns, Royal Standards, Flags, Burgees, &c, &c.<br />
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Every requisite f<strong>or</strong> Theatres, Music Halls, &c.<br />
THE TRADE SUPPLIED WITH MATERIAL, OR COODS MADE UP.<br />
Estimates, Price Lists, and Samples on application.<br />
GEORGE KENNING,<br />
MANUFACTURER,<br />
GLASGOW -<br />
f 9 WEST HOWARD STREET,<br />
1 Off Jamaica Street.<br />
175 ALDERSGATE bTREET.<br />
LONDON, - -<br />
J"<br />
i 1, 2, and 3 LITTLE BRITAIN.<br />
1 198 FLEET STREET.<br />
LIVERPOOL, - ~ 2 MONUMENT PLACE.<br />
MANCHESTER, - 47 BRIDGE STREET.<br />
4
THE £COTTI£H<br />
FOR THE<br />
WHOLE OF<br />
SCOTLAND,<br />
From <strong>the</strong> Master Mason to <strong>the</strong><br />
33rd<br />
Degree.<br />
PRICE, - - SIXPENCE.<br />
POST FREE, - SEVENPENCE.<br />
GEORGE KENNING,<br />
9 WEST HOWARD STREET, GLASGOW.
THE<br />
A Monthly Digest <strong>of</strong> <strong>Freemasonry</strong><br />
IN ALL ITS BRANCHED<br />
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KENNING'S<br />
pYCLOPiEDIA<br />
OF<br />
pREEMASONRY:<br />
A WORK TREATING FULLY ON<br />
Masonic Hist<strong>or</strong>y and Archaeology<br />
UP TO THE PRESENT TIME.<br />
Price 10s. 6d.<br />
GEORGE KENNING,<br />
Jttasonic gqurt,<br />
9 WEST HOWARD STREET,<br />
(Off Jamaica Street),<br />
GLASGOW.
THE COMPLETE<br />
FURNITURE AND APPOINTMENTS<br />
FOR<br />
CRAFT LODG-ES,<br />
OF SUPERIOR DESIGN AND WORKMANSHIP, MANU-<br />
FACTURED IN THREE QUALITIES, BY<br />
Bra GEORGE KENNING, P.M.,<br />
COMPRISING—<br />
Three Pedestals.<br />
Three Candlesticks, Oak <strong>or</strong><br />
Mahogany.<br />
Two Columns, Oak <strong>or</strong> Mahogany.<br />
S. W. Triangle, in Oak <strong>or</strong><br />
Mahogany, with Gilt Tripod,<br />
Pulley Blocks and<br />
Windlass and rough and<br />
perfect Ashlars.<br />
Oak <strong>or</strong> Mahogany Box, and<br />
nine Tools, plated.<br />
Oak <strong>or</strong> Mahogany Gavels.<br />
One do. do. Maul.<br />
One do. do. Ballot<br />
Box and Balls.<br />
One pair Oak <strong>or</strong> Mahogany<br />
Wands.<br />
Three Tracing Boards.<br />
£30, £60,<br />
One Oak <strong>or</strong> Mahogany<br />
Kneeling Stool.<br />
Lamp (Star in <strong>the</strong> East).<br />
Third Degree Sheet.<br />
Bible, with Name and No.<br />
<strong>of</strong> Lodge in Gold.<br />
Square & Compass in Case.<br />
Cushion f<strong>or</strong> Bible.<br />
Ten Officers' Collars.<br />
Ten Officers' Jewels.<br />
T. G. Dirk.<br />
O. G. Sw<strong>or</strong>d.<br />
Set <strong>of</strong> Eight Books.<br />
Three Sounding Boards.<br />
Two Pairs <strong>of</strong> S—s.<br />
Three C—c T— s.<br />
Two H s.<br />
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Emblems.<br />
AND £100.<br />
Chairs, Dais, Tesselated Carpeting, Banners, &c, &c, on th<br />
most moderate terms, acc<strong>or</strong>ding to material, style,
THE COMPLETE<br />
FURNITURE AND APPOINTMENTS<br />
ROYAL ARCH CHAPTERS,<br />
OF SUPERIOR DESIGN AND WORKMANSHIP, MANU-<br />
FACTURED IN THREE QUALITIES, BY<br />
Comp.<br />
Flo<strong>or</strong> Cloth.<br />
Pedestal.<br />
Veil.<br />
Set <strong>of</strong> Letters.<br />
Five Large Banners, with<br />
Poles and Stands.<br />
Fifteen Small ditto.<br />
Three Large Candlesticks.<br />
Three Small ditto.<br />
Six Ornamental Candles.<br />
Crowbar.<br />
Pickaxe.<br />
Shovel.<br />
Parchment Scroll.<br />
Set <strong>of</strong> Lines.<br />
GEORGE KENNING, P.Z.,<br />
COMPRISING—<br />
Trowel.<br />
Square and Compasses.<br />
Sw<strong>or</strong>d.<br />
Three Robes f<strong>or</strong> Principals,<br />
Three Sceptres do.<br />
Three Surplices do.<br />
Ten Officers' Collars.<br />
Ten Officers' Jewels.<br />
Janit<strong>or</strong>s' Sw<strong>or</strong>d.<br />
Ballot Box.<br />
Bible.<br />
Cushion f<strong>or</strong> ditto.<br />
Scripture Extracts.<br />
Set <strong>of</strong> Five Books.<br />
JB50, £100, AND £150.<br />
Thrones, Chairs, Canopy, Head Ornaments, Ac, (if<br />
required), on <strong>the</strong> most moderate terms,<br />
acc<strong>or</strong>ding to material, style, &c<br />
F<strong>or</strong> Personal Insignia, see Lists <strong>of</strong> Clothing and Jewels.<br />
9 WEST HOWARD STREET, ...<br />
(<strong>of</strong>f Jamaica Street),<br />
1, 2, and 3 LITTLE BRITAIN,...<br />
175 ALDERSGATE STREET, ...<br />
198 FLEET STREET<br />
2 MONUMENT PLACE,<br />
47 BRIDGE STREET,<br />
GLASGOW.<br />
!! i LONDON.<br />
.. LIVERPOOL.<br />
.. MANCHESTER.
;<br />
l&tdtb |kp <strong>of</strong> §pt<br />
FREEMASONRY<br />
OB THE<br />
:<br />
REEMASON'S POCKET COMPENDIUM.<br />
BT<br />
BRO. WM. GAREY,<br />
ABERDEEN.<br />
EDITED BT<br />
BRO. JAMES STEVENSON,<br />
01 "The Freemason's Magaeine," and "The Universal Masonic<br />
Calendar," Hon. C<strong>or</strong>. Mem. Ger. Mas. Union, &c.<br />
Wixfy an (Smblmatttal Jtoniispta.<br />
FOURTH<br />
EDflTGN.<br />
GEORGE KENNING,<br />
(i, 2 & 3, Little Britain.<br />
175, Aldersgate Street.<br />
198, Fleet Street.<br />
Liverpool . 2, Monument Place.<br />
Glasgow . 145, Argyle Street.<br />
Price 1.; <strong>or</strong>, postfive is. zd. within United Kingdom,<br />
[ENTERED AT 9TATI0MMSS' HALL.]<br />
I874,
J&tgljt f^onotttafcle tije 3Earl at HaHjougie,<br />
K.T., O.C.B., P.O., ETC. ETC. ETC.,<br />
MOST WORSHIPFUL GRAND MASTER MASON OF<br />
SCOTLAND; PAST DEPUTY GRAND<br />
MASTER OP ENGLAND;<br />
ETC. EttC. ETC.,<br />
THIS L4TTLE VOLUME<br />
BT SPECIAL PERMISSION,<br />
MOST RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED BY HIS LORDSHIP*<br />
FAITHFUL AND OBEDIENT SERVANTS,<br />
WILLIAM GAEEY and<br />
JAMES STEVENSON.
PREFACE.<br />
IT is with much diffidence and doubt that this<br />
little volume is launched on <strong>the</strong> eddying tide <strong>of</strong><br />
"Masonic Opinion;" but <strong>the</strong> auth<strong>or</strong> trusts his<br />
zeal f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> cause <strong>of</strong> <strong>Freemasonry</strong>, and <strong>the</strong> especial<br />
object f<strong>or</strong> which this hand-book is intended,<br />
namelv, as a preparat<strong>or</strong>y w<strong>or</strong>k f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> Masonic<br />
neophyte, adapted to prepare him f<strong>or</strong> m<strong>or</strong>e pr<strong>of</strong>ound<br />
search into <strong>the</strong> mysteries and teachings <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Freemasonry</strong>, will be sufficient apology, if any be<br />
needed, f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> addition <strong>of</strong> this unassuming contribution<br />
to Masonic literature.<br />
In addressing himself to <strong>the</strong> preparation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
following pages, <strong>the</strong> auth<strong>or</strong> has endeavoured to<br />
display <strong>the</strong> beauties <strong>of</strong> <strong>Freemasonry</strong> in as brief,<br />
yet comprehensive, and withal in as inexpensive<br />
a shape as possible— indeed, he is unaware <strong>of</strong> any<br />
similar w<strong>or</strong>k having yet been isstsed at such a<br />
comeatable price, and in so convenient a f<strong>or</strong>m—to<br />
serve as an unpretentious yet useful Masonic vade
yd<br />
Preface.<br />
tnecutn.<br />
Commending itself not alone to <strong>the</strong> juni<strong>or</strong><br />
Masonic student, but also to many Brethren, who,<br />
from <strong>the</strong>ir inability to attend at Lodge meetings<br />
and Lodges <strong>of</strong> Instruction, remain, owing to <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
unacquaintance with Masonry, as " Sleeping"<br />
Masons, <strong>or</strong> "Masonic fungi," to such it is hoped<br />
<strong>the</strong> present volume may serve as an incentive to<br />
awaken <strong>the</strong> d<strong>or</strong>mant Bro<strong>the</strong>r, direct him in search<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> beautiful inculcations <strong>of</strong> Masonry, and<br />
stimulate him to become conversant with <strong>the</strong> various<br />
impressive ceremonials <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Order ; f<strong>or</strong> his<br />
ultimate improvement must depend <strong>upon</strong> his own<br />
application and assiduity.<br />
Whilst <strong>the</strong> ancient landmarks, too, <strong>of</strong> our Order<br />
have been studiously guarded from <strong>the</strong> intrusive<br />
gaze <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> non-Masonic w<strong>or</strong>ld, still, to such <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
uninitiated who may chance to peruse <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>k,<br />
nothing appears but what will show <strong>the</strong>m that our<br />
Order is founded on <strong>the</strong> purest principles <strong>of</strong> m<strong>or</strong>al<br />
rectitude.<br />
The exigencies <strong>of</strong> publishing arrangements have<br />
unavoidably prevented <strong>the</strong> auth<strong>or</strong> attending to<br />
various suggested emendations on <strong>the</strong> part <strong>of</strong><br />
his Edit<strong>or</strong>, but <strong>the</strong> indulgence <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Brethren is
Preface.<br />
*ii<br />
claimed f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> First Edition, which, it is contemplated,<br />
will soon be exhausted, and necessitate a<br />
second and amended issue <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>k.<br />
In addition to <strong>the</strong> auth<strong>or</strong>'s gratefulness f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
valuable and voluntary co-operation received at<br />
<strong>the</strong> hands <strong>of</strong> his Edit<strong>or</strong>, Bro. James Stevenson,<br />
he has also to return his sincere and grateful thanks<br />
to numerous o<strong>the</strong>r friends who have assisted him<br />
in his labours with <strong>the</strong>ir advice, and have aff<strong>or</strong>ded<br />
him access to various Masonic and o<strong>the</strong>r valuable<br />
w<strong>or</strong>ks <strong>of</strong> reference.<br />
. W. GAREY.<br />
AB£*iFE£Jr, April, 1869.
—<br />
The First Degree,<br />
fo,<br />
gipprentia.<br />
SYMBOLISM.<br />
f^HE First <strong>or</strong> Entered Apprentice Degree is<br />
intended to symbolise man, helpless and<br />
^ ign<strong>or</strong>ant, entering into <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld ; also<br />
youth groping in mental darkness f<strong>or</strong> intellectual<br />
<strong>light</strong>.<br />
QUALIFICATION.<br />
Every Candidate f<strong>or</strong> initiation must believe in<br />
<strong>the</strong> existence <strong>of</strong> a Supreme Being and future state ;<br />
he must be <strong>of</strong> good m<strong>or</strong>al character, and mature<br />
age, and able to conscientiously answer <strong>the</strong> following<br />
questions in <strong>the</strong> affirmative :<br />
11<br />
DECLARATION.<br />
Do you seriously declare, <strong>upon</strong> your honour,<br />
se gentlemen, that, unbiassed by friends<br />
mi inclination, and uninfluenced by
2 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
"<br />
unw<strong>or</strong>thy motives, you freely, and voluntarily<br />
<strong>of</strong>fer yourself a candidate f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> mysteries and<br />
privileges <strong>of</strong> <strong>Freemasonry</strong> ?<br />
" Do you seriously declare that you are solely<br />
prompted to solicit those privileges, by a favourable<br />
opinion conceived <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Order, a desire <strong>of</strong> knowledge,<br />
and a wish <strong>of</strong> being m<strong>or</strong>e serviceable to your<br />
fellow-creatures ? "<br />
" Do you also seriously declare, <strong>upon</strong> your<br />
honour, that you will cheerfully conf<strong>or</strong>m to <strong>the</strong><br />
established usages and customs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Fraternity V*<br />
THE PREPARATION.<br />
" Oh Hindu ess to <strong>the</strong>future! kindly given.<br />
That each may fill <strong>the</strong> circle marked by Heaven."<br />
The- Candidate is required to close his eyes on<br />
<strong>the</strong> past, and think <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> dark mysterious future.<br />
This blindness is emblematical <strong>of</strong> our ign<strong>or</strong>ance,<br />
and <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Designs <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> great Architect <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Universe being beyond <strong>the</strong> utmost stretch <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Human Mind. Yet <strong>the</strong> study <strong>of</strong> Nature will<br />
develop intellectual <strong>light</strong>, dispel ign<strong>or</strong>ance; and<br />
<strong>the</strong> m<strong>or</strong>e it is studied <strong>the</strong> l<strong>of</strong>tier and m<strong>or</strong>e comprehensive<br />
will be our ideas <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Great Creat<strong>or</strong><br />
and First Cause <strong>of</strong> all things.<br />
" Nature is but a namef<strong>or</strong> an effect.<br />
Whose cause is God."<br />
Equality. — As Masonry does not regard, <strong>or</strong><br />
admit any person on account <strong>of</strong> rank <strong>or</strong> f<strong>or</strong>tune,<br />
he should divest his mind <strong>of</strong> all selfish and w<strong>or</strong>ldly<br />
considerations, and lay aside <strong>the</strong> trinkets and<br />
trappings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> outward w<strong>or</strong>ld, and f<strong>or</strong> a time<br />
become po<strong>or</strong> and penniless ; so that he may<br />
remember, when asked to assist a Bro<strong>the</strong>r in distress,<br />
that Masonry received him in poverty, and
The First Degree. 3<br />
that he should <strong>the</strong>n embrace <strong>the</strong> opp<strong>or</strong>tunity <strong>of</strong><br />
practising that virtue, Charity,<br />
« Which is <strong>the</strong> spirit that, with widestplan, ~<br />
Bro<strong>the</strong>r to bro<strong>the</strong>r binds, and man to man.<br />
His Sincerity <strong>of</strong> purpose and purity <strong>of</strong> mind are<br />
symbolised by <strong>the</strong> left breast being made bare ;—<br />
in token <strong>of</strong> implicit, <strong>or</strong> unreserved Confidence, <strong>the</strong><br />
right arm is uncovered ; so also in token <strong>of</strong> Humility<br />
is <strong>the</strong> left knee made bare, to bend bef<strong>or</strong>e <strong>the</strong><br />
Great Auth<strong>or</strong> <strong>of</strong> his existence ;<br />
and to follow <strong>the</strong><br />
ancient custom <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Israelites, he will be prepared<br />
to slip <strong>the</strong> shoe from <strong>of</strong>f his foot, as a testimony<br />
<strong>or</strong> token <strong>of</strong> Fidelity (Ruth iv.
4 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
<strong>of</strong> Justice is pointed to our heart, and will sooner<br />
<strong>or</strong> later overtake us ; so in Masonry, at our hrst<br />
entrance we are taught to be cautious, and trust<br />
m God.<br />
Prayer.—Vouchsafe Thine aid, Almighty Fa<strong>the</strong>r,<br />
and Supreme Architect <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Universe, to this<br />
our present convention ; and grant this Candidate<br />
f<strong>or</strong> Masonry may dedicate and devote his life to<br />
Thy service, so as to become a true and faithful<br />
Bro<strong>the</strong>r among us. Endow him with a competency<br />
<strong>of</strong> Thy Divine Wisdom, that, assisted by <strong>the</strong> lessons<br />
<strong>of</strong> our M<strong>or</strong>al Science, he may be better enabled to<br />
display <strong>the</strong> beauties <strong>of</strong> Godliness, to <strong>the</strong> Honour<br />
and Gl<strong>or</strong>y <strong>of</strong> Thy Most Holy Name. (So mote it<br />
be.) Amen.<br />
THE PILGRIMAGE.<br />
Where <strong>the</strong> blessing <strong>of</strong> God is invoked, <strong>the</strong> candidate<br />
may fear no danger, but arise, and follow<br />
his en<strong>light</strong>ened guide, who will enable him to travel<br />
safely through <strong>the</strong> dark emblematic pilgrimage <strong>of</strong><br />
ign<strong>or</strong>ance, and overcome <strong>the</strong> obstructions and<br />
difficulties which beset <strong>the</strong> way <strong>of</strong> knowledge.<br />
This part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ceremony symbolises <strong>the</strong> progress<br />
<strong>of</strong> human intelligence, from a state <strong>of</strong> ign<strong>or</strong>ance,<br />
to <strong>the</strong> highest state <strong>of</strong> civilisation and mental<br />
en<strong>light</strong>enment. During <strong>the</strong> time <strong>of</strong> this part, in<br />
some lodges <strong>the</strong> 133rd Psalm is read, to impress<br />
<strong>the</strong> Candidate and Brethren with a feeling <strong>of</strong><br />
Bro<strong>the</strong>rly Love.<br />
" Perfect love has power to s<strong>of</strong>ten<br />
Cares that might ourpeace destroy',<br />
Nay, does<br />
m<strong>or</strong>e— transf<strong>or</strong>ms <strong>the</strong>m <strong>of</strong>ten,<br />
Changing s<strong>or</strong>row intojoy"
,<br />
—<br />
The First Degree. 5<br />
Or <strong>the</strong> following may be sung with good effect<br />
Tune— " Artaxerxes."<br />
" Behold ! how pleasant and how good<br />
F<strong>or</strong> brethren such as we,<br />
Of <strong>the</strong> accepted bro<strong>the</strong>rhood,<br />
To diuell in unity.<br />
1<br />
Tis like <strong>the</strong> oil on Aaron's head,<br />
Which to his feet distills ;<br />
Like Herm<strong>or</strong>ts dew so richly shed,<br />
On Zion's sacred hills !<br />
F<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong>re <strong>the</strong> L<strong>or</strong>d <strong>of</strong> <strong>light</strong> and love,<br />
A blessing sent with power<br />
Oh, may we all this blessingprove,<br />
E'en lifef<strong>or</strong> everm<strong>or</strong>e !<br />
On Friendship's altar, rising here,<br />
Our hands now p<strong>light</strong>ed be.<br />
To live in love, with hearts sincere,<br />
In peace and unity.<br />
The hand placed on <strong>the</strong> Bible will remind us <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> obligations we owe to God and our fellowmen.<br />
THE SECRECY AND VOWS OF FIDELITY.<br />
" Heaven from all creatures hides <strong>the</strong> book <strong>of</strong>faie,^<br />
All but <strong>the</strong> page prescribed, <strong>the</strong>ir present state.<br />
Having completed <strong>the</strong> symbolic journey in<br />
search <strong>of</strong> en<strong>light</strong>enment, Vows <strong>of</strong> Fidelity <strong>or</strong><br />
Secrecy are required; but <strong>the</strong>se are voluntary,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Candidate must be assured, previous to<br />
his taking <strong>the</strong>m, that <strong>the</strong>re is nothing in those<br />
Vows incompatible with his civil, m<strong>or</strong>al, <strong>or</strong> re-<br />
1 imous duties. The Veil <strong>of</strong> Secrecy which shrouds<br />
<strong>Freemasonry</strong> has attracted <strong>the</strong> attention <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>
6 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
uninitiated m<strong>or</strong>e than anything else ; and by <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
conjectures, have attributed to it many erroneous<br />
notions, some <strong>of</strong> which, none but <strong>the</strong> most ign<strong>or</strong>ant<br />
could believe—such as using incantations, and<br />
raising unearthly-like beings, <strong>or</strong> perf<strong>or</strong>ming some<br />
waggish mischief on <strong>the</strong> Candidate. The writer<br />
has <strong>of</strong>ten seen a Candidate enter <strong>the</strong> Lodge trembling<br />
with fear, and has known <strong>of</strong> o<strong>the</strong>rs, who,<br />
after being partly prepared, became so suspicious<br />
<strong>or</strong> afraid <strong>of</strong> some evil, that <strong>the</strong>y would not proceed,<br />
even though assured by members <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
contrary. But some may naturally reason in <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
own mind :— " If <strong>the</strong> objects and pretensions <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>Freemasonry</strong> be honest and praisew<strong>or</strong>thy, what<br />
need is <strong>the</strong>re f<strong>or</strong> an obligation to secrecy ? If it<br />
be really a system <strong>of</strong> m<strong>or</strong>ality, and have a tendency<br />
to elevate <strong>the</strong> mind, <strong>or</strong> be a benefit to mankind,<br />
why not make it free to all ? And charity<br />
being boasted <strong>of</strong> as one <strong>of</strong> its characteristic features,<br />
is it not Masons' bounden duty, as charitable men,<br />
to make it known without fee <strong>or</strong> price, instead <strong>of</strong><br />
binding <strong>the</strong> members by fearful oaths to secrecy V<br />
The only answer which we can give to <strong>the</strong>se questions<br />
is, That nature is shrouded in mystery ; and<br />
mystery has charms f<strong>or</strong> all men. Whatever is<br />
familiar to us, however novel, beautiful, <strong>or</strong> elevating,<br />
is <strong>of</strong>ten disregarded, unnoticed, <strong>or</strong> despised ;<br />
whilst novelty, however trifling <strong>or</strong> devoid <strong>of</strong> intrinsic<br />
value, will charm and captivate <strong>the</strong> imagination,<br />
and become <strong>the</strong> fuel <strong>of</strong> curiosity, which<br />
cannot bear to be ign<strong>or</strong>ant <strong>of</strong> what o<strong>the</strong>rs know.<br />
And so <strong>Freemasonry</strong>, taking <strong>the</strong> example <strong>of</strong><br />
Nature, veils its beauties in mystery, and illustrates<br />
<strong>the</strong>m by symbols. In supp<strong>or</strong>t <strong>of</strong> this, we<br />
will conclude this part by quoting two distinguished<br />
modern writers ;—
The First Degree.<br />
« Thoughts will not w<strong>or</strong>k, except in silence ;<br />
nei<strong>the</strong>r will virtue w<strong>or</strong>k, except in secrecy. Like<br />
.<br />
o<strong>the</strong>r plants, virtue will not grow unless its root<br />
be hidden, buried from <strong>the</strong> <strong>light</strong> <strong>of</strong> tne.sun Let<br />
<strong>the</strong> sun shine on it-nay, do but look at it privily<br />
hvself-<strong>the</strong> roots wi<strong>the</strong>r, and no flowers will glad<br />
*<br />
h£e »__ Thomas Carlyle, ' ' Sart<strong>or</strong> Resartus.<br />
-God has put <strong>the</strong> veil <strong>of</strong> secrecy bef<strong>or</strong>e <strong>the</strong><br />
soul f<strong>or</strong> its preservation; and to thrust it rudely<br />
:<br />
as de without reason, would be suicidal. Nei<strong>the</strong>r<br />
heret'n^r, as I think, hereafter, will our thoughts<br />
and feelings He open to <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld. -H. W.<br />
Beecher, " Life Thoughts.<br />
THE ENLIGHTENMENT.<br />
- The <strong>light</strong> shineth in darkness ; and <strong>the</strong> darkness comprehended<br />
""SS skid, let <strong>the</strong>re be <strong>light</strong>, and <strong>the</strong>re was <strong>light</strong>.»~GEK.<br />
i. 3.<br />
This particular part <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ceremony symbolises<br />
<strong>the</strong> vict<strong>or</strong>y <strong>of</strong> Knowledge over Ign<strong>or</strong>ance, and <strong>the</strong><br />
impression intended to be made on <strong>the</strong> mind <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Candidate on first beholding <strong>the</strong> Three Grea<br />
Lights <strong>of</strong> Masonry, is to make him recollect that<br />
<strong>the</strong> <strong>light</strong> <strong>of</strong> Wisdom is beautiful, and that all he<br />
paths are peace.<br />
" '<br />
Tis <strong>the</strong> Great Spirit, wide diffused<br />
Through everything we see,<br />
That with our spirits communeth<br />
Of things mysterious— life and death,<br />
Time and Eternity !<br />
" The people that walked in darkness have seen<br />
a great <strong>light</strong> : <strong>the</strong>y that dwell in <strong>the</strong> land <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
shadow <strong>of</strong> death ; <strong>upon</strong> <strong>the</strong>m hath <strong>the</strong> <strong>light</strong> shined.<br />
—Isaiah ix. 2.
a"y<br />
8 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light<br />
THE<br />
***** ***** ******<br />
Are <strong>the</strong> Holy Bible,* Square, and Compasses.<br />
The Bible to govern our faith and practice, being<br />
<strong>the</strong> gift <strong>of</strong> God to man f<strong>or</strong> that purpose ; <strong>the</strong><br />
Square to regulate our actions ; and <strong>the</strong> Compasses<br />
to keep us in due bounds with all mankind.<br />
THE ****** ******<br />
Are three burning Candles <strong>or</strong> Tapers, emblematical<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Spirit <strong>of</strong> God, whereby His chosen people<br />
are en<strong>light</strong>ened, and are also meant to represent, <strong>the</strong><br />
Sun to rule <strong>the</strong> day, <strong>the</strong> Moon to rule <strong>the</strong> night,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Master to rule and govern his Lodge with<br />
equal regularity. They are also emblematical <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> Master and his Wardens, and are placed in<br />
<strong>the</strong> east, south, and west ; as <strong>the</strong> sun rises in<br />
<strong>the</strong> east, so <strong>the</strong> W<strong>or</strong>shipful Master is placed in<br />
<strong>the</strong> east, to open his lodge, and en<strong>light</strong>en his<br />
brethren in Masonry.<br />
The Juni<strong>or</strong> Warden represents <strong>the</strong> sun at its<br />
meridian in <strong>the</strong> south, and as it is <strong>the</strong>n <strong>the</strong> beauty<br />
and gl<strong>or</strong>y <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> day, it is his duty to call <strong>the</strong><br />
brethren from labour to refreshment, see that <strong>the</strong>y<br />
do not convert <strong>the</strong> time <strong>the</strong>re<strong>of</strong> into intemperance,<br />
but to regulate <strong>the</strong>m so that pleasure and pr<strong>of</strong>it<br />
may be enjoyed by all.<br />
The Seni<strong>or</strong> Warden represents <strong>the</strong> sun in<br />
<strong>the</strong><br />
west at <strong>the</strong> close <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> day, and it is his duty to<br />
see that <strong>the</strong> Brethren are all satisfied, and that <strong>the</strong>y<br />
have had <strong>the</strong>ir just dues, bef<strong>or</strong>e closing <strong>the</strong> lodge<br />
by command <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Master.<br />
THE SECRETS.<br />
Having been converted into one <strong>of</strong> thf S<strong>or</strong>t? <strong>of</strong><br />
B hi*m whiLT ntr ,ie8 T h< lt<br />
?? u not known °th*<br />
-<br />
&lem,<br />
book,<br />
which<br />
<strong>or</strong> 02i.<br />
is understood to contain <strong>the</strong>
;<br />
The First Degree. 9<br />
xJght, and taught to be cautious, <strong>the</strong> Candidate<br />
may be intrusted with <strong>the</strong> Secrets belonging to<br />
this degree, which consist <strong>of</strong> a Sign, a Grip <strong>or</strong><br />
Token, and a W<strong>or</strong>d. F<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong>se <strong>the</strong> reader is referred<br />
to <strong>the</strong> lodge-room ; but it would be well to remember<br />
that all squares, levels, and upright lines<br />
allude to <strong>the</strong> Obligation, and are proper signs by<br />
which to know a Mason.<br />
THE INVESTITURE.<br />
After <strong>the</strong> reciprocal communication <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> marks<br />
which distinguish us as Masons, <strong>the</strong> Candidate is<br />
invested with a lambskin <strong>or</strong> white apron. It is<br />
<strong>the</strong> Emblem <strong>of</strong> Innocence, <strong>the</strong> Badge <strong>of</strong> a Mason,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Bond <strong>of</strong> Bro<strong>the</strong>rhood ; and, when w<strong>or</strong>thily<br />
w<strong>or</strong>n as such, will give pleasure to himself<br />
and honour to <strong>the</strong> fraternity; and be <strong>of</strong> m<strong>or</strong>e<br />
value than <strong>the</strong> diadems <strong>of</strong> Kings, <strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> pearls <strong>of</strong><br />
Princesses ; and it should remind him that purity<br />
<strong>of</strong> life and rectitude <strong>of</strong> conduct are necessary to<br />
gain admission to <strong>the</strong> Celestial Lodge, where <strong>the</strong><br />
Supreme Architect presides.<br />
CHARGE AFTER INVESTITURE<br />
You are never to put on that Badge if you are<br />
at variance with any Bro<strong>the</strong>r in <strong>the</strong> lodge ; if so,<br />
ei<strong>the</strong>r <strong>or</strong> both <strong>of</strong> you must retire, so that <strong>the</strong> harmony<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> assembly be not disturbed by your<br />
unseemly strife. When haply your differences<br />
are reconciled, you may return and clo<strong>the</strong> yourselves,<br />
and * * dwell toge<strong>the</strong>r in unity," f<strong>or</strong> bro<strong>the</strong>rly<br />
love is regarded as <strong>the</strong> strongest cement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Order.<br />
THE FOUNDATION STONE<br />
Of every masonic edifice is, <strong>or</strong> ought to be,<br />
placed in <strong>the</strong> n<strong>or</strong>th-east c<strong>or</strong>ner <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> building
—<br />
—<br />
10 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
and <strong>the</strong> newly initiated Bro<strong>the</strong>r is made to represent<br />
that stone, and <strong>the</strong>re receives his first lesson<br />
on M<strong>or</strong>al Architecture, teaching him to walk and<br />
act uprightly bef<strong>or</strong>e God and man ; as well as f<strong>or</strong><br />
special reasons, a striking illustration <strong>of</strong> bro<strong>the</strong>rly<br />
love and charity, which he is unable, in his present<br />
condition, to bestow (i Kings vi. 7). But<br />
charity is <strong>the</strong> principal <strong>of</strong> all social virtues, and<br />
<strong>the</strong> distinguishing characteristic <strong>of</strong> Masons. Let<br />
<strong>the</strong> feelings <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> heart, guided by reason, direct<br />
<strong>the</strong> hand <strong>of</strong> Charity :<br />
" When <strong>the</strong> fleet vanities <strong>of</strong> life's briefday<br />
}<br />
Oblivion' s hurrying wing shall sweep away ;<br />
Each act by Charity and Mercy done,<br />
High der <strong>the</strong> wrecks <strong>of</strong> time shall live alotieP<br />
THE WORKING TOOLS<br />
Are <strong>the</strong> twenty-four inch Gauge, <strong>the</strong> common<br />
Gavel, and <strong>the</strong> Chisel. Their use in operative<br />
Masonry is obvious, and requires no explanation ;<br />
but as speculative <strong>or</strong> Free Masons, we see <strong>the</strong>m<br />
applied to our m<strong>or</strong>als, thus<br />
THE TWENTY-FOUR INCH GAUGE<br />
Is emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> twenty-four hours <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
day, which ought to be devoted to <strong>the</strong> service <strong>of</strong><br />
God by a proper division <strong>of</strong> our time, f<strong>or</strong> prayer,<br />
labour, refreshment, and sleep.<br />
THE COMMON GAVEL<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> Reason, and <strong>of</strong> labour being<br />
<strong>the</strong> lot <strong>of</strong> man. By rsiesoning and examining<br />
ourselves, we see <strong>the</strong> necessity <strong>of</strong> breaking <strong>of</strong>f and<br />
divesting our consciences <strong>of</strong> all vice, <strong>the</strong>reby fitting<br />
our minds, as living stones, f<strong>or</strong> that spiritual building<br />
eternal in <strong>the</strong> heavens.
The First Degree,<br />
II<br />
Vice is a monster <strong>of</strong> so frightful mein<br />
y<br />
As, to be hated, needs but to be seen"<br />
THE CHISEL<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> Perseverance, which is necessary<br />
to establish perfection, promote <strong>the</strong> habit <strong>of</strong><br />
virtue, en<strong>light</strong>en <strong>the</strong> mind, and make <strong>the</strong> soul<br />
pure. Education gives polish to <strong>the</strong> mind, as <strong>the</strong><br />
chisel by perseverence gives smoothness to <strong>the</strong><br />
stone.<br />
THE JEWELS<br />
Of a lodge are Six in number—viz., three<br />
movable and three immovable. The three movable<br />
are <strong>the</strong> Square, Level, and Plumb ;* <strong>the</strong> three<br />
immovable are <strong>the</strong> Rough Ashler, <strong>the</strong> Perfect<br />
Ashler, and <strong>the</strong> Trestle Board, f<br />
THE ROUGH ASHLER<br />
Represents* man in his natural state, ign<strong>or</strong>ant,<br />
unpolished, and vicious, like a precious stone surrounded<br />
by a dense crust, its beauty unseen till<br />
<strong>the</strong> rough surface is removed.<br />
THE PERFECT ASHLER<br />
Represents him in a high state <strong>of</strong> civilisation,<br />
with his mind divested <strong>of</strong> all vice, and prepared<br />
f<strong>or</strong> that house, not made with hands, eternal in<br />
<strong>the</strong> heavens, which, by a liberal and virtuous education,<br />
our own endeavours, and <strong>the</strong> grace <strong>of</strong> God,<br />
we hope to attain.<br />
* The Square, Level, and Plumb being <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>king tools in th©<br />
Second Degree, are explained at page 24<br />
t In America, <strong>the</strong> reverse is <strong>the</strong> case, <strong>the</strong> immovable being <strong>the</strong><br />
Square, Level, and Plumb, because always found in <strong>the</strong> east, south,<br />
md west.
12 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
THE TRESTLE BOARD<br />
Represents <strong>the</strong> Book <strong>of</strong> Life, <strong>or</strong> Natural and<br />
Revealed Religion, in which <strong>the</strong> Supreme Architect<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Universe has drawn designs to guide<br />
us, and laid down precepts whereby we are to<br />
erect our spiritual temple, and find acceptance<br />
into <strong>the</strong> city <strong>of</strong> our God.<br />
THE THREE VIRTUES<br />
Of an Entered Apprentice are symbolically de-<br />
t<br />
signated <strong>the</strong> Precious Jewels, which are, in this<br />
Degree, an Attentive Ear, a Silent <strong>or</strong> Instructive<br />
Tongue, and a Faithful Heart.<br />
AN ATTENTIVE EAR<br />
Is to be given to <strong>the</strong> instructions <strong>of</strong> your supe«<br />
^<br />
ri<strong>or</strong>s in knowledge, and <strong>the</strong> calls <strong>of</strong> a w<strong>or</strong>thy,<br />
distressed Bro<strong>the</strong>r. All nature, and <strong>the</strong> events<br />
which are continually happening in <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld's<br />
hist<strong>or</strong>y, proclaim lessons <strong>of</strong> wisdom which an attentive<br />
ear will remember. But <strong>the</strong>re are many<br />
entering <strong>the</strong> p<strong>or</strong>ch <strong>of</strong> Masonry, who, f<strong>or</strong> want <strong>of</strong><br />
this virtue, fall asleep in <strong>the</strong> arms <strong>of</strong> indolence,<br />
and do not penetrate beyond <strong>the</strong> surface, to find<br />
<strong>the</strong> golden treasures which <strong>the</strong> rich mine contains.<br />
A SILENT TONGUE<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> sanctuary <strong>of</strong> Prudence and Discretion.<br />
This virtue is essential to Masons, so that I he vail<br />
<strong>of</strong> Mystery behind which our secrets are hidden<br />
may not be incautiously drawn aside. It will also<br />
remind us that we should " Speak evil <strong>of</strong> no man,"<br />
and that it is m<strong>or</strong>e honourable to vindicate than<br />
to accuse. Whom we cannot approve, we should<br />
pity in silence. Titus, chap. iii.
;<br />
The Firsi Degree. 13<br />
A FAITHFUL HEART<br />
To fulfil your obligations, is <strong>the</strong> safest reposit<strong>or</strong>y<br />
in which you can lock up your secrets, and exemplify<br />
your Honour and Fidelity.<br />
CHALK, EARTH, AND CHARCOAL<br />
Are emblematical <strong>of</strong> Freedom, Fervency, and<br />
Zeal, which are qualifications necessary to promote<br />
independence, devotion, and love in <strong>the</strong> heart<br />
<strong>of</strong> every faithful servant. " There is nothing<br />
freer than chalk, <strong>the</strong> s<strong>light</strong>est touch <strong>of</strong> which<br />
leaves a trace behind ; no heat m<strong>or</strong>e fervent than<br />
burning charcoal ; and nothing m<strong>or</strong>e zealous than<br />
<strong>the</strong> earth to bring f<strong>or</strong>th. " We must love God with<br />
freedom, fervency, and zeal.<br />
BROTHERLY LOVE, RELIEF, AND TRUTH<br />
Are <strong>the</strong> three great Tenets <strong>or</strong> Principles <strong>of</strong> a<br />
Freemason.<br />
BROTHERLY LOVE<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> strongest cement <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Order, and without<br />
it <strong>the</strong> Fraternity would soon cease to exist.<br />
By it we are taught to regard <strong>the</strong> whole human<br />
species as one family, to aid, supp<strong>or</strong>t, and protect<br />
each o<strong>the</strong>r.<br />
RELIEF<br />
Flows from bro<strong>the</strong>rly love, and it is a duty incumbent<br />
on all men, to soo<strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong> unhappy, relieve<br />
<strong>the</strong> distressed, and rest<strong>or</strong>e peace to <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
troubled minds.<br />
TRUTH<br />
Is a divine attribute, and <strong>the</strong> mo<strong>the</strong>r <strong>of</strong> Virtue<br />
and <strong>the</strong> first lesson we are taught in Masonry is<br />
to be fervent and zealous in <strong>the</strong> pursuit <strong>of</strong> truth,<br />
and to dispense it freely.
—;<br />
14 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light,<br />
THE LODGE-ROOM<br />
Is a representation <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld ; and a properly<br />
constructed lodge should be situated due east and<br />
west, f<strong>or</strong> which we assign three Masonic reasons<br />
First, <strong>the</strong> sun rises in <strong>the</strong> east, and sets in <strong>the</strong><br />
west ; second, Learning <strong>or</strong>iginated in <strong>the</strong> east, and<br />
extended to <strong>the</strong> west; third, The Tabernacle in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Wilderness<br />
^<br />
was so situated (Exodus, chaps,<br />
xxvi. and xxvii.), to commem<strong>or</strong>ate <strong>the</strong> miraculous<br />
east wind (Exodus<br />
^<br />
xiv. 2j), and being symbolic<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> universe, was <strong>the</strong> type <strong>of</strong> a Freemason's<br />
Lodge.<br />
ITS FORM,<br />
Being an oblong square, <strong>or</strong> double cube, is emblematical<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> united powers <strong>of</strong> Darkness and<br />
Light.<br />
ITS DIMENSIONS<br />
Embrace every clime ; in length, from east to<br />
west ; in breadth, between <strong>the</strong> n<strong>or</strong>th and south ; in<br />
depth, from <strong>the</strong> surface <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> earth to <strong>the</strong> centre<br />
and in height, from earth to heaven ; denoting <strong>the</strong><br />
universality <strong>of</strong> its influence.<br />
WISDOM, STRENGTH, AND BEAUTY<br />
Are <strong>the</strong> three great pillars on which <strong>the</strong> Lodgeroom<br />
is supp<strong>or</strong>ted. Wisdom to contrive, govern,<br />
and instruct ; Strength to supp<strong>or</strong>t ; and Beauty to<br />
ad<strong>or</strong>n. The W. M. in <strong>the</strong> east represents Wisdom,<br />
<strong>the</strong> S. W. in <strong>the</strong> west represents Strength, and<br />
<strong>the</strong> J. W. in <strong>the</strong> south represents Beauty. Their<br />
situations f<strong>or</strong>ming a triangle is emblematical <strong>of</strong>
.<br />
"<br />
The First Degree.<br />
<strong>the</strong>ir unity in f<strong>or</strong>ming one Government ;<br />
IS<br />
<strong>the</strong>y also<br />
represent Solomon, King <strong>of</strong> Israel, f<strong>or</strong> his wisdom ;<br />
Hiram, King <strong>of</strong> Tyre, f<strong>or</strong> his assistance in building<br />
<strong>the</strong> Temple ; and Hiram Abiff, f<strong>or</strong> his cunning<br />
<strong>or</strong> beautiful w<strong>or</strong>kmanship. These three great<br />
pillars are represented by <strong>the</strong> three principal <strong>or</strong>ders<br />
<strong>of</strong> Architecture, i.e., <strong>the</strong> D<strong>or</strong>ic, Ionic, and C<strong>or</strong>inthian.<br />
The Ionic column represents Wisdom,<br />
because it wisely combines strength with grace.<br />
Strength is represented by <strong>the</strong> D<strong>or</strong>ic, being <strong>the</strong><br />
strongest and most massive <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> <strong>or</strong>ders. Beauty<br />
is represented by <strong>the</strong> C<strong>or</strong>inthian, being <strong>the</strong> most<br />
beautiful and <strong>or</strong>namental.<br />
THE COVERING<br />
Of a Freemason's Lodge is <strong>the</strong>-Celestial Canopy,<br />
<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> starry decked Heavens,<br />
Where streams <strong>of</strong>joy glide ever on,<br />
Around <strong>the</strong> L<strong>or</strong>d's eternal throne. "<br />
The sun, moon, and stars are emblems <strong>of</strong> God's<br />
power, goodness, omnipresence, and eternity.<br />
THE FURNITURE<br />
Consists <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Holy Bible, Square, and Compasses.<br />
The Bible is <strong>the</strong> symbol <strong>of</strong> God's Will,<br />
and is dedicated to His service ; <strong>the</strong> Square to<br />
<strong>the</strong> Master, being <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> his <strong>of</strong>fice ; <strong>the</strong><br />
Compasses are dedicated to <strong>the</strong> whole Craft,<br />
being emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> limits which ought to<br />
circumscribe our conduct, that we may live with<br />
honour, and be respected by a large circle <strong>of</strong><br />
good friends, and make our exit from <strong>the</strong> stage <strong>of</strong><br />
life in <strong>the</strong> humble hope <strong>of</strong> being rewarded with a<br />
Crown <strong>of</strong> Gl<strong>or</strong>y.
lO<br />
<strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light,<br />
THE ORNAMENTS<br />
Are <strong>the</strong> Mosaic Pavement, <strong>the</strong> Indented B<strong>or</strong>der ><br />
and Blazing Star.<br />
THE MOSAIC PAVEMENT<br />
Reminds us <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> bounteous liberality <strong>of</strong> our<br />
Fa<strong>the</strong>r in heaven, who has spread <strong>the</strong> earth with<br />
a beauteous carpet, and wrought it, as it were, in<br />
Mosaic w<strong>or</strong>k. It also represents <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld<br />
chequered over with good and evil, pain and<br />
pleasure, grief and joy : to-day we walk in prosperity,<br />
to-m<strong>or</strong>row we totter in adversity ; but,<br />
united in <strong>the</strong> Bond <strong>of</strong> Bro<strong>the</strong>rhood, and walking<br />
uprightly, we may not stumble.<br />
THE INDENTED BORDER<br />
Of <strong>the</strong> Mosaic Carpet may be likened to <strong>the</strong><br />
wavy ocean, which skirts <strong>the</strong> land, and by indenting<br />
it, adds beauty to <strong>the</strong> earth; but it is emblemat'<br />
ically intended to represent <strong>the</strong> many blessing<br />
and comf<strong>or</strong>ts with which we are surrounded in thi<br />
life, but m<strong>or</strong>e especially those which we hope to<br />
enjoy hereafter.<br />
- THE BLAZING STAR<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> Prudence, which should shine<br />
conspicuous in our conduct, and be <strong>the</strong> guiding<br />
star <strong>of</strong> our lives, instructing us to regulate our<br />
actions by <strong>the</strong> dictates <strong>of</strong> reason and experience,<br />
to judge wisely, and determine with propriety, on<br />
everything that tends to our present <strong>or</strong> future<br />
happiness. Its proper place is in <strong>the</strong> centre <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
lodge, so as to be ever present to <strong>the</strong> eye, that<br />
<strong>the</strong> heart may be attentive to <strong>the</strong> dbtates, and<br />
steadfast in <strong>the</strong> laws <strong>of</strong> Prudence.
The First Degree. 17<br />
THE TASSELS<br />
Which ad<strong>or</strong>n <strong>the</strong> four c<strong>or</strong>ners <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Indented<br />
B<strong>or</strong>der, are emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Cardinal Virtues<br />
—viz., Prudence, F<strong>or</strong>titude,. TTemperance, and<br />
Justice. (F<strong>or</strong> Prudence see <strong>the</strong> u Blazing Star. ")<br />
FORTITUDE<br />
Is that virtue which enables us to bear <strong>the</strong> adversities<br />
<strong>of</strong> social life, encounter danger, resist<br />
temptation, and keep us in <strong>the</strong> practice <strong>of</strong> Virtue.<br />
TEMPERANCE<br />
Sets bounds to our desires, frees <strong>the</strong> mind from<br />
<strong>the</strong> allurements <strong>of</strong> vice, and renders our passions<br />
tame and governable. The health <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> body,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> dignity <strong>of</strong> man, depend <strong>upon</strong> a faithful<br />
observance <strong>of</strong> this virtue.<br />
JUSTICE<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> boundary <strong>of</strong> Right, and <strong>the</strong> cement <strong>of</strong><br />
Civil Society. Without <strong>the</strong> exercise <strong>of</strong> this virtue,<br />
social intercourse could not exist ; might would<br />
usurp <strong>the</strong> place <strong>of</strong> right, and universal confusion<br />
ensue. Justice commands you to " Do unto o<strong>the</strong>rs<br />
as you would that o<strong>the</strong>rs 'should do unto you. "<br />
Let Prudence direct you, F<strong>or</strong>titude supp<strong>or</strong>t you,<br />
Temperance chasten you, and Justice be <strong>the</strong> guide<br />
<strong>of</strong> all your actions.<br />
THE THEOLOGICAL LADDER,<br />
Which Jacob saw in his vision, extending from<br />
earth to heaven, represents <strong>the</strong> way <strong>of</strong> salvation,<br />
<strong>the</strong> many steps composing it representing as many<br />
m<strong>or</strong>al virtues, <strong>the</strong> principal being Faith, Hope, and<br />
Charity. It rests on <strong>the</strong> volume <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sacred Law,<br />
2
8<br />
;<br />
1<br />
<strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light,<br />
which streng<strong>the</strong>ns our Faith, and creates Hope in<br />
Imm<strong>or</strong>tality ; but Charity is <strong>the</strong> chief <strong>of</strong> all social<br />
virtues, and <strong>the</strong> distinguishing characteristic <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Order ; and <strong>the</strong> Mason possessed <strong>of</strong> that virtue in<br />
its widest sense, may be said to wear <strong>the</strong> brightest<br />
jewel that can ad<strong>or</strong>n <strong>the</strong> Fraternity. The Sacred<br />
Volume is represented on <strong>the</strong> Tracing Board as<br />
resting on <strong>the</strong> v<strong>or</strong>tex <strong>of</strong> a circle, which is emb<strong>or</strong>dered<br />
by two perpendicular parallel lines, representing<br />
Moses and King Solomon ; <strong>or</strong> (in<br />
Christian Lodges) St. John <strong>the</strong> Baptist and St.<br />
John <strong>the</strong> Evangelist, who, in Masonry, it is understood,<br />
were parallels, and exemplary <strong>of</strong> those<br />
virtues which Masons are taught to reverence and<br />
practise.<br />
THE CIRCLE<br />
Represents <strong>the</strong> Boundary Line <strong>of</strong> a Mason's<br />
conduct ; and in going round <strong>the</strong> circle, we necessarily<br />
touch <strong>upon</strong> <strong>the</strong>se lines, and <strong>the</strong> Holy Scriptures,<br />
which point out <strong>the</strong> whole duty <strong>of</strong> man<br />
and <strong>the</strong>y who circumscribe <strong>the</strong>ir conduct by those<br />
examples, and <strong>the</strong> precepts <strong>the</strong>rein contained,<br />
cannot materially err. There is a point within<br />
<strong>the</strong> circle referring to <strong>the</strong> Gl<strong>or</strong>ious Throne <strong>of</strong> God,<br />
<strong>the</strong> Great Architect and Creat<strong>or</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Universe,<br />
who is Almighty, <strong>of</strong> infinite Wisdom, and whose<br />
Being extends through boundless space, enjoying<br />
alone <strong>the</strong> attributes <strong>of</strong> Imm<strong>or</strong>tality and Eternity !<br />
This symbol <strong>of</strong> God is almost universal in his<br />
w<strong>or</strong>ks.<br />
The God <strong>of</strong> Nature and <strong>of</strong> Grace<br />
In all his w<strong>or</strong>ks appears ;<br />
ITis goodness through <strong>the</strong> earth we trace*<br />
His grandeur in <strong>the</strong> spheres.
The First Degree. 19<br />
THE LEWIS,<br />
Which is dovetailed into <strong>the</strong> Perfect Ashler,<br />
denotes Strength, to supp<strong>or</strong>t us in all our lawful<br />
Undertakings. It also denotes <strong>the</strong> son <strong>of</strong> a Mason,<br />
whose duty it is to supp<strong>or</strong>t his aged parents,<br />
when <strong>the</strong>y are unable to labour <strong>or</strong> bear <strong>the</strong><br />
burden <strong>of</strong> cares, ga<strong>the</strong>red <strong>upon</strong> <strong>the</strong>m in <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
journey through life,<br />
CHARGE TO NEWLY ADMITTED BRETHREN.<br />
You have now passed through <strong>the</strong> ceremony <strong>of</strong><br />
your Initiation, and been admitted a member <strong>of</strong><br />
our ancient and honourable Order. Knowledge<br />
and virtue are <strong>the</strong> objects <strong>of</strong> our pursuit ; and <strong>the</strong><br />
Great Architect <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Universe is our Supreme<br />
Master. On him we rely f<strong>or</strong> supp<strong>or</strong>t and protection,<br />
and to his will we ought to submit, while we w<strong>or</strong>k<br />
by <strong>the</strong> unerring rule he has given to guide us. By<br />
having said so much, we do not mean you to<br />
understand that Masons arrogate to <strong>the</strong>mselves<br />
everything that is great, good, and honourable.<br />
By no means. The gates <strong>of</strong> knowledge, and <strong>the</strong><br />
paths <strong>of</strong> truth and virtue, are open to all who<br />
choose to enter and walk <strong>the</strong>rein ; but this much<br />
may be affirmed <strong>of</strong> Masonry, that <strong>the</strong> m<strong>or</strong>al<br />
lessons which it teaches favour us with peculiar<br />
advantage, which, if duly studied and practised,<br />
would exalt us above <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> mankind<br />
As a Mason, you are bound to be a strict observer<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> m<strong>or</strong>al law, as contained in <strong>the</strong> Holy<br />
Writings, and to consider <strong>the</strong>se as <strong>the</strong> unerring<br />
standard <strong>of</strong> Truth and Justice, and by <strong>the</strong>ir divine<br />
precepts, to regulate your life and actions.<br />
Therein is inculcated your duly to God, your neighbour,<br />
and yourself ; to God, in never mentioning<br />
his name but with that reverential awe which
20 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
becomes a creature to bear to his Creat<strong>or</strong>, and to<br />
look <strong>upon</strong> him as <strong>the</strong> source <strong>of</strong> all good, which<br />
we came into <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld to enjoy, to love, and<br />
obey ; to your neighbours, by acting on <strong>the</strong> Square,<br />
and doing unto <strong>the</strong>m as yoc would wish <strong>the</strong>m to<br />
do unto you ; to yourself, in avoiding all irregularity<br />
and intemperance, <strong>or</strong> debasing your dignity<br />
as a man, and a Mason. A zealous attachment<br />
to <strong>the</strong>se duties will insure public and private<br />
esteem.<br />
As a citizen, you should be exemplary in <strong>the</strong><br />
discharge <strong>of</strong> your civil duties, true to your government,<br />
and just to your country, yielding obedience<br />
to <strong>the</strong> laws which aff<strong>or</strong>d you protection.<br />
As an individual, be careful to avoid reproach<br />
<strong>or</strong> censure ; let not interest, favour, <strong>or</strong> prejudice<br />
bias your integrity, <strong>or</strong> influence you to be guilty <strong>of</strong><br />
any dishonourable action ;<br />
and, above all, practise<br />
benevolence and charity, so far as you can without<br />
injury to yourself <strong>or</strong> family. " But do not suppose<br />
that Masonry confines your good <strong>of</strong>fices to <strong>the</strong><br />
Fraternity only, <strong>or</strong> absolves you from your duty to<br />
<strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> mankind,—it inculcates Universal Benevolence,<br />
and extends its benign influence to <strong>the</strong><br />
whole w<strong>or</strong>ld. Your frequent attendance at our<br />
meetings we earnestly solicit, yet it is not meant<br />
that Masonry should interfere with your necessary<br />
avocations ; but in your leisure time, that you may<br />
improve in Masonic Knowledge, you should converse<br />
with well inf<strong>or</strong>med Brethren, who will be<br />
as ready to give as you to receive instruction.<br />
Finally, you are to keep sacred and inviolable <strong>the</strong><br />
mysteries <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Order, as <strong>the</strong>se are to distinguish<br />
you from <strong>the</strong> rest <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> community; and if a<br />
person <strong>of</strong> your acquaintance is desirous <strong>of</strong> being<br />
initiated into Masonry, be careful not to recom-
The First Decree. 21<br />
mend him, unless you are convinced he will conf<strong>or</strong>m<br />
to our rules, that <strong>the</strong> honour and reputation<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Institution may be firmly established.<br />
Your attention to this charge will lead us to<br />
hope that you will estimate <strong>the</strong> real value <strong>of</strong> <strong>Freemasonry</strong>,<br />
and imprint on your mind <strong>the</strong> dictates <strong>of</strong><br />
Truth, Honour, and Justice.
The Second Degree,<br />
#r, JtU<strong>of</strong>o
.<br />
.<br />
24 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
thy DivineAVisdom to shine <strong>upon</strong> us, and en<strong>light</strong>en<br />
<strong>the</strong> dark ign<strong>or</strong>ance <strong>of</strong> our souls, so that we may<br />
view <strong>the</strong> beauties <strong>of</strong> thy handiw<strong>or</strong>k, and comprehend<br />
m<strong>or</strong>e fully thy almighty power and goodness.<br />
il<br />
Such blessingsfrom thy gracious hand,<br />
Our humble prayers impl<strong>or</strong>e :<br />
And thou shalt be our chosen God,<br />
Andp<strong>or</strong>tion everm<strong>or</strong>e. ' ' A men<br />
THE WORKING TOOLS<br />
Of this Degree are <strong>the</strong> Square, Level, and Plumb.<br />
THE SQUARE<br />
In this Degree is a very imp<strong>or</strong>tant instrument,<br />
as none can become a Fellow Craft without its<br />
assistance. It is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> M<strong>or</strong>ality and<br />
Virtue, reminding us to square our actions, and<br />
harmonise our conduct by <strong>the</strong> unalterable principles<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> m<strong>or</strong>al law as contained in <strong>the</strong> Holy<br />
Bible, and we are obligated to act <strong>upon</strong> <strong>the</strong> Square<br />
with all mankind, but especially with our Brethren<br />
in Masonry.<br />
THE LEVEL<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> Equality, and reminds us that<br />
we are descended from <strong>the</strong> same stock, partake <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> same nature, and share <strong>the</strong> same hope. In<br />
<strong>the</strong> sight <strong>of</strong> God all men are equal ; and <strong>the</strong> time<br />
will come when all distinctions but that <strong>of</strong> goodness<br />
shall cease, and Death, <strong>the</strong> grand leveller <strong>of</strong><br />
human greatness, reduce us all to <strong>the</strong> same state.<br />
THE PLUMB<br />
- Is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> Justness and Uprightness, and<br />
admonishes us to hold <strong>the</strong> scales <strong>of</strong> Justice in equal<br />
poise, and make our conduct coincide with <strong>the</strong>
The Second Degree. 25<br />
line <strong>of</strong> our duty, which is to walk uprightly bef<strong>or</strong>e<br />
God and man.<br />
THE JEWELS.<br />
The Three Symbolic <strong>or</strong> precious Jewels <strong>of</strong> a<br />
Fellow Craft are Faith, Flope and Charity.<br />
FAITH IN GOD.<br />
" F<strong>or</strong> humble Faith, with steadfast eye,<br />
Points to a brighter w<strong>or</strong>ld on high.'' 1<br />
HOPE IN IMMORTALITY.<br />
u Daughter <strong>of</strong> Faith I Aivake, arise, illume<br />
The dread unknown, <strong>the</strong> Chaos <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> tomb.'"<br />
CHARITY TO ALL MANKIND<br />
" Securer her votaries unblastedfame,<br />
And in celestial annals 'graves <strong>the</strong>ir name"<br />
THE SABBATH<br />
Should be regarded by every good Mason with<br />
reverence, being instituted by God as a day <strong>of</strong><br />
rest and devotion,<br />
" To spread <strong>the</strong> page <strong>of</strong> Scripture, and compare<br />
Our conduct with <strong>the</strong> laws engraven <strong>the</strong>re"<br />
THE TWO PILLARS OF BRASS,<br />
Which were placed at <strong>the</strong> p<strong>or</strong>ch <strong>or</strong> entrance to<br />
King Solomon's Temple, are described in 1 Kings<br />
vii. 15-22, 2 Kings xxv. 17, Jer. Hi. 21-23, as<br />
being eighteen cul its high ; but, in 2 Chron. iii.<br />
15-17, <strong>the</strong>y are said to have been "thirty and five<br />
cubits high." This discrepancy is supposed to<br />
have arisen bv <strong>the</strong> aggregate height <strong>of</strong> both Pillars<br />
being given in Chronicles, and allowing half a<br />
cubit <strong>of</strong> each to be hidden in <strong>the</strong> joining holes <strong>of</strong>
26 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
<strong>the</strong> Chapiters. The Chapiters on <strong>the</strong> top were <strong>of</strong><br />
molten brass, and five cubits in height. Although<br />
ano<strong>the</strong>r discrepancy seemingly exists in 2 Kings<br />
xxv. 17, where it is said that <strong>the</strong>y were only<br />
three cubits, but if we allow two cubits f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
" wrea<strong>the</strong>n w<strong>or</strong>k and pomegranates" described,<br />
<strong>the</strong>y will amount to five cubits. The net w<strong>or</strong>k<br />
denotes Unity; <strong>the</strong> lily w<strong>or</strong>k, Peace; and <strong>the</strong><br />
pomegranates, from <strong>the</strong> exuberance <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir seed,<br />
Plenty. The Chapiters were also surmounted by<br />
two pommels <strong>or</strong> globes (1 Kings vii. 41 ; 2 Chron.<br />
iv. 12), which, acc<strong>or</strong>ding to Masonic tradition,<br />
were <strong>the</strong> archives <strong>of</strong> Masonry, and contained <strong>the</strong><br />
maps and charts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> celestial and terrestial<br />
bodies, denoting <strong>the</strong> universality <strong>of</strong> Masonry, and<br />
that a Mason's charity should be equally extensive,<br />
bounded only by Prudence, and ruled by<br />
Discretion, so that real want and merit may be relieved,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> knave prevented from eating <strong>the</strong><br />
bread which Virtue in distress ought to have.<br />
Pillars <strong>of</strong> such magnitude, strength, and beauty<br />
could not but attract <strong>the</strong> attention <strong>of</strong> those who<br />
beheld <strong>the</strong>m, and impress <strong>upon</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir minds <strong>the</strong><br />
idea <strong>of</strong> strength and stability which <strong>the</strong>ir names<br />
imply, and will be remembered by every Mason.<br />
The destruction <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>se immense pillars, <strong>the</strong> magnificent<br />
temple, and city, is significant <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> weakness<br />
and instability <strong>of</strong> human greatness, and th at<br />
our strength can only be in God; and faith in h-im<br />
is <strong>the</strong> only foundation on which we can build our<br />
future temple <strong>of</strong> happiness to stand firm f<strong>or</strong> ever.<br />
2 Sam. xii. 17 ; 1 Kings ix. 3-7.<br />
THE WINDING STAIR.<br />
Having passed <strong>the</strong> pillars <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> p<strong>or</strong>ch, <strong>the</strong><br />
Candidate, seeking f<strong>or</strong> m<strong>or</strong>e <strong>light</strong> by <strong>the</strong> myste-
The Second Degree*. 27<br />
ries contained in <strong>the</strong> Second Degree, must approach<br />
<strong>the</strong> east by a supposed Winding Stair, syml olically<br />
leading from <strong>the</strong> ground flo<strong>or</strong> to <strong>the</strong> Middle Chamber<br />
<strong>of</strong> Masonry. The only reference to it in scripture<br />
is in 1 Kings vi. 8.<br />
Bef<strong>or</strong>e entering <strong>the</strong> Middle Chamber, where as<br />
Masons, we are told that <strong>the</strong> Fellow Craft went to<br />
receive <strong>the</strong>ir wages, <strong>the</strong>y had to give a certain<br />
passw<strong>or</strong>d, in pro<strong>of</strong> that <strong>the</strong>y were not imp<strong>or</strong>ters.<br />
This passw<strong>or</strong>d was instituted at <strong>the</strong> time when<br />
Jephtha put <strong>the</strong> Ephraimites to f<strong>light</strong>, and .'lew<br />
f<strong>or</strong>ty and two thousand at <strong>the</strong> different f<strong>or</strong>ds and<br />
passes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> river J<strong>or</strong>dan (Judges xii. 1-7). The<br />
w<strong>or</strong>d Shibboleth means <strong>the</strong> f<strong>or</strong>d <strong>of</strong> a river, <strong>or</strong> an<br />
ear <strong>of</strong> c<strong>or</strong>n, and is depicted on <strong>the</strong> Tracing Bo: rd<br />
by an ear <strong>of</strong> c<strong>or</strong>n near a stream <strong>of</strong> water ; but, as<br />
speculaiive Masons, it is <strong>the</strong> lesson which this<br />
symbol is intended to illustrate that we have to<br />
consider, f<strong>or</strong>, by hist<strong>or</strong>ical facts and natural reasons,<br />
we cannot suppose that <strong>the</strong> legend as rehearsed<br />
in <strong>the</strong> lodge-room is anything m<strong>or</strong>e than<br />
a philosophical myth. Masonic Symbolism shows<br />
<strong>the</strong> Candidate as always rising towards a higher<br />
state <strong>of</strong> perfection. In <strong>the</strong> first degree, we have<br />
<strong>the</strong> Theological Ladder, impressing this idea ; in<br />
<strong>the</strong> Second Degree, we have <strong>the</strong> Winding Staircase,<br />
symbolising <strong>the</strong> lab<strong>or</strong>ious ascent to eminence<br />
in <strong>the</strong> attainment <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hidden mysteries <strong>of</strong> learning<br />
and science. The Symbolic Staircase is composed<br />
<strong>of</strong> three, five, seven, <strong>or</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r unequal numter<br />
<strong>of</strong> steps.<br />
The Three Steps represent youth, <strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Degree <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Entered Apprentice, viz.— 1st, his<br />
being b<strong>or</strong>n to Masonic life ; 2nd, his ign<strong>or</strong>ance <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld in his childhood ;<br />
3rd, <strong>the</strong> lessons which<br />
he receives in his youth to prepare his mind f<strong>or</strong>
h<strong>or</strong>izontally,<br />
2S <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light<br />
<strong>the</strong> instruction which is given in <strong>the</strong> succeeding<br />
Degrees ; <strong>the</strong>y also allude to <strong>the</strong> three supp<strong>or</strong>ts,<br />
Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty.<br />
The Five Steps allude to Manhood, <strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Fellow Craft Degree, <strong>the</strong> Five Orders <strong>of</strong> Architecture,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Five Human Senses.<br />
The Seven Steps refer to Old Age. <strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> Third<br />
Degree ; <strong>the</strong> seven Sabbatical Years, seven Years<br />
<strong>of</strong> Famine, seven Golden Candlesticks, seven<br />
Planets, seven Days <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Week, seven Years in<br />
Building <strong>the</strong> Temple, seven Wonders <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> W<strong>or</strong>ld,<br />
&c, but m<strong>or</strong>e especially to <strong>the</strong> seven liberal Arts<br />
and Sciences. The total number <strong>of</strong> Steps, amounting<br />
in all to Fifteen, is a significant symbol, f<strong>or</strong><br />
fifteen was a sacred number among <strong>the</strong> Orientals,<br />
because <strong>the</strong> letters <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> holy name JAH, n%<br />
were, in <strong>the</strong>ir numerical value, equivalent to fifteen<br />
; <strong>the</strong> Fifteen Steps <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Winding Stair are<br />
15 15 15 15 <strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e symbolic <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> name <strong>of</strong><br />
God ; and hence a figure, in which<br />
8 16<br />
<strong>the</strong> nine digits were so disposed as<br />
3 5 7 to count "fifteen ei<strong>the</strong>r way when<br />
added toge<strong>the</strong>r perpendicularly,<br />
15 4 9 2<br />
!<br />
'<br />
<strong>or</strong> diagonally, con-<br />
15 stituted one <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir most sacred<br />
talismans.<br />
Masons are indebted f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> symbol <strong>of</strong> odd<br />
numbers to Pythag<strong>or</strong>as, who considered <strong>the</strong>m<br />
m<strong>or</strong>e perfect than even ones ; <strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e, odd numbers<br />
predominate in Masonry, and are intended to<br />
symbolise <strong>the</strong> idea <strong>of</strong> perfection. In ancient times<br />
was considered a f<strong>or</strong>tunate omen, when ascending<br />
it<br />
a stair, to commence with <strong>the</strong> right foot, and<br />
find <strong>the</strong> same foot f<strong>or</strong>emost at <strong>the</strong> top ; and this<br />
is said to be <strong>the</strong> reason why ancient temples were<br />
ascended by an odd number <strong>of</strong> steps.
The Second Degree, £9<br />
It is <strong>the</strong>n as a symbol, and a symbol only, that<br />
we study <strong>the</strong> legend <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Winding Staircase ; to<br />
adopt it as an hist<strong>or</strong>ical fact, <strong>the</strong> absurdity <strong>of</strong> its<br />
details stares us in <strong>the</strong> face. What could be m<strong>or</strong>e<br />
absurd than to believe that eighty thousand craftsmen<br />
had to ascend such a stair, to <strong>the</strong> narrow<br />
,<br />
precincts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Middle Chamber, to receive <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
wages in c<strong>or</strong>n, wine, and in oil ? Taken as an<br />
alleg<strong>or</strong>y, we see beauty in it, as it sets bef<strong>or</strong>e us <strong>the</strong><br />
picture <strong>of</strong> a Mason's duty,—to be ever on <strong>the</strong><br />
search f<strong>or</strong> knowledge, even though <strong>the</strong> steps in<br />
<strong>the</strong> attainment <strong>of</strong> it are winding and difficult ; but<br />
by study and perseverance we will gain our reward,<br />
and that reward m<strong>or</strong>e precious than ei<strong>the</strong>r<br />
money, c<strong>or</strong>n, oil, <strong>or</strong> wine—2 Chron. ii. 15.<br />
Having passed into <strong>the</strong> Middle Chamber, <strong>the</strong><br />
attention <strong>of</strong> Fellow Crafts is drawn to <strong>the</strong> letter G.<br />
<strong>or</strong> rp placed conspicuous in <strong>the</strong> centre <strong>of</strong> it, to denote<br />
Geometry, <strong>the</strong> science on which this Degree<br />
is founded, but it refers m<strong>or</strong>e especially to G. \T. \<br />
G.\G.\0.\T.\U.\<br />
CORN, WINE, OIL,<br />
Are emblematical <strong>of</strong><br />
Plenty, Cheerfulness, Peace.<br />
ARCHITECTURE.<br />
Architecture is <strong>the</strong> art <strong>of</strong> building edifices, ei<strong>the</strong>r<br />
f<strong>or</strong> habitation <strong>or</strong> defence, and with respect to its<br />
objects, maybe divided into three branches— Civil,<br />
Military, and Naval. Nature and necessity taught<br />
<strong>the</strong> first inhabitants <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> earth to build huts to<br />
shelter <strong>the</strong>m from <strong>the</strong> rigour <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> seasons, and<br />
inclemency <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> wea<strong>the</strong>r, which, in course <strong>of</strong><br />
lime, <strong>the</strong>y improved ; and, after attaining what was<br />
useful and necessary, luxury and ambition caused<br />
<strong>the</strong>m to <strong>or</strong>nament <strong>the</strong>ir buildings.
3
TJie Second Degree* 31<br />
THE DORIC<br />
Is said to be <strong>the</strong> most ancient and best prop<strong>or</strong>tioned<br />
<strong>of</strong> all <strong>the</strong> <strong>or</strong>ders ; it has no <strong>or</strong>naments on<br />
base <strong>or</strong> capital except mouldings. The height<br />
is eight diameters, and its frieze is divided by<br />
Trigiyphs and Metopes ; <strong>the</strong> oldest example extant<br />
is at C<strong>or</strong>inth.<br />
THE IONIC<br />
Bears a kind <strong>of</strong> mean prop<strong>or</strong>tion between <strong>the</strong><br />
m<strong>or</strong>e solid and delicate <strong>or</strong>ders ; <strong>the</strong> capital is <strong>or</strong>namented<br />
with volutes, and its c<strong>or</strong>nice with denticles.<br />
The column is nine diameters. Michael<br />
Angelo gives it a single row <strong>of</strong> leaves at <strong>the</strong> bottom<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> capital.<br />
THE CORINTHIAN<br />
Is ten diameters high, and its capital is ad<strong>or</strong>ned<br />
with two rows <strong>of</strong> leaves and eight volutes, which<br />
sustain <strong>the</strong> abacus, and <strong>the</strong> c<strong>or</strong>nice is <strong>or</strong>namented<br />
with denticles and modillions. Vitruvius relates<br />
<strong>the</strong> following narrative <strong>of</strong> its invention :— " Callimachus,<br />
accidentally passing <strong>the</strong> tomb <strong>of</strong> a young<br />
lady, he perceived a basket <strong>of</strong> toys, covered with<br />
a tile, placed over an ancthus root, having been<br />
left <strong>the</strong>re by her nurse. As <strong>the</strong> branches grew up,<br />
<strong>the</strong>y encompassed <strong>the</strong> basket, till, arriving at tLj<br />
tile, <strong>the</strong>y met with an obstruction, and bent downwards.<br />
Struck with <strong>the</strong> beauty <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> arrangement,<br />
he set about imitating <strong>the</strong> figure, <strong>the</strong> basket representing<br />
<strong>the</strong> base <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> capital ; <strong>the</strong> tile, <strong>the</strong> abacus ;<br />
and <strong>the</strong> bending leaves, <strong>the</strong> volutes." « Foliated<br />
capitals <strong>of</strong> much greater antiquity than any discovered<br />
in Greece, are, however, to be found in<br />
Egypt and Asia Min<strong>or</strong>; and Villalpandus says<br />
" that it took its <strong>or</strong>igin from an Order in SUJUv-
32 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
mon's Temple, <strong>the</strong> leaves where<strong>of</strong> were those 01<br />
<strong>the</strong> palm tree."<br />
THE COMPOSITE<br />
Is so called because it is composed <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
<strong>or</strong>ders ; <strong>the</strong> column is ten diameters high, and its<br />
c<strong>or</strong>nice has denticles, <strong>or</strong> simple modillions.<br />
There are, however, many o<strong>the</strong>r styles <strong>of</strong> architecture.<br />
The Teutonic is distinguished by semicircular<br />
arches, and massive plain columns.<br />
The Gothic is distinguished by its <strong>light</strong>ness and<br />
pr<strong>of</strong>use <strong>or</strong>nament, pointed arches, and pillars,<br />
carved so as to imitate several conjoined. The<br />
Egyptians, Chinese, Hindoos, Mo<strong>or</strong>s, &c, have<br />
each <strong>the</strong>ir own styles <strong>of</strong> <strong>or</strong>namental buildings, and<br />
splendid specimens are to be seen in <strong>the</strong>ir several<br />
countries.<br />
THE FIVE SENSES.<br />
An analysis <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> human faculties is next given<br />
in this Degree, in which <strong>the</strong> five external Senses<br />
particularly claim attention, as <strong>the</strong>y are <strong>the</strong> root<br />
<strong>or</strong> foundation "<strong>of</strong> all human knowledge. It will<br />
*<br />
be seen, by a careful consideration <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> functions<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Five Senses, that sensation and reflection<br />
are <strong>the</strong> great sources <strong>of</strong> human knowledge, and<br />
that <strong>the</strong>y are <strong>the</strong> means by which all our first ideas<br />
and inf<strong>or</strong>mation are acquired, because external objects<br />
act first on our senses, and rouse us to a consciousness<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir existence, and convey distinct<br />
impressions to <strong>the</strong> mind, acc<strong>or</strong>ding to <strong>the</strong> manner<br />
in which <strong>the</strong>y affect us ; <strong>the</strong> mind, st<strong>or</strong>ing up<br />
and remembering <strong>the</strong>se impressions, assembles<br />
<strong>the</strong>m, and compares one with ano<strong>the</strong>r, and thus<br />
we acquire a new and m<strong>or</strong>e complex set <strong>of</strong> ideas,<br />
in which we observe variety, unif<strong>or</strong>mity, simili-
;<br />
—<br />
The Second Degree, 33<br />
tude, symmetry, novelty, grandeur, and reference<br />
to an end ; and by <strong>the</strong> mind reflecting <strong>upon</strong> what<br />
passes within itself, creates ano<strong>the</strong>r set <strong>of</strong> impressions<br />
no less distinct than those conveyed to it<br />
by <strong>the</strong> senses. Sensation is, <strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e, <strong>the</strong> great<br />
source <strong>of</strong> human knowledge, and, at <strong>the</strong> same<br />
time, <strong>the</strong> boundary beyond which our conceptions<br />
cannot reach, f<strong>or</strong> we are unable to find one<br />
<strong>or</strong>iginal idea, which has not been derived from<br />
sensation. But we are not to conclude that, because<br />
solid and thinking beings are <strong>the</strong> only<br />
ideas <strong>of</strong> existence which we are able to f<strong>or</strong>m,<br />
that <strong>the</strong>re may not be a class <strong>of</strong> beings superi<strong>or</strong><br />
to mankind, enjoying o<strong>the</strong>r powers <strong>of</strong> perception<br />
unknown to us ; we might as well conclude that<br />
<strong>the</strong> want <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ideas <strong>of</strong> <strong>light</strong> and colour, in a<br />
man b<strong>or</strong>n blind, would be an argument against<br />
<strong>the</strong> reality <strong>or</strong> possibility <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir existence<br />
" F<strong>or</strong> though things sensible be numberless.<br />
But only jive <strong>the</strong> senses' 1<br />
<strong>or</strong>gans be<br />
And in those five, ail things <strong>the</strong>irf<strong>or</strong>ms express^<br />
Which we can touch, taste\ s?nell, hear, <strong>or</strong> see."<br />
THE EYE<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> <strong>or</strong>gan <strong>of</strong> Sight, and seeing is that sense<br />
by which we distinguish objects, f<strong>or</strong>ms, colours,<br />
motion, rest, and distance <strong>or</strong> space, &c.<br />
" The beams <strong>of</strong> <strong>light</strong> had been in vain displayed,<br />
Had not <strong>the</strong> eye been fitf<strong>or</strong> vision made<br />
In vain <strong>the</strong> Auth<strong>or</strong> had <strong>the</strong> eye prepared<br />
With so much skill, had not <strong>the</strong> <strong>light</strong> appeared"<br />
HEARING<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> sense by which we distinguish sounds, and<br />
enjoy all ihe charms <strong>of</strong> music; by it we are en-<br />
3
34 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
abled to communicate with each o<strong>the</strong>r, and enjoy<br />
<strong>the</strong> pleasures <strong>of</strong> society, and avoid many dangers<br />
that we would o<strong>the</strong>rwise be exposed to.<br />
" Is <strong>the</strong>re a heart thai music cannot melt?<br />
Alas ! how is that rugged heartf<strong>or</strong>l<strong>or</strong>n !<br />
Is <strong>the</strong>re who ne'er those mystic transp<strong>or</strong>tsfell<br />
Of solitude and melancholy b<strong>or</strong>n T*<br />
FEELING<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> Sense by which we acquire ideas <strong>of</strong> hardness<br />
and s<strong>of</strong>tness, roughness and smoothness, heat<br />
and cold, &a, and is <strong>the</strong> most universal <strong>of</strong> our<br />
senses.<br />
These three senses are peculiarly essential to<br />
Masons, i.e., to see <strong>the</strong> Signs, hear <strong>the</strong> W<strong>or</strong>ds,<br />
and feel <strong>the</strong> Grips.<br />
TASTING<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> sense by which we distinguish sweet from<br />
sour, bitter from salt, &c, and enables us to make<br />
a proper distinction in <strong>the</strong> choice <strong>of</strong> our food*<br />
SMELLING<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> sense by which we distinguish sweet, sour,<br />
aromatic, and fcetid <strong>or</strong> <strong>of</strong>fensive odours, Which<br />
convey different impressions to <strong>the</strong> mind ; and <strong>the</strong><br />
design <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> G.\A. \0. \T. \U. \ is manifest in<br />
having located <strong>the</strong> <strong>or</strong>gan <strong>of</strong> smell in <strong>the</strong> nostrils,<br />
<strong>the</strong> channels through which <strong>the</strong> air is continually<br />
passing.<br />
The inconceivable wisdom <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Almighty Being<br />
is displayed in <strong>the</strong> five senses. The structure <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> mind, and all <strong>the</strong> active powers <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> soul<br />
present a vast and boundless field f<strong>or</strong> philosophical<br />
investigation, which far exceeds human inquiry;
I every<br />
—<br />
The Second Degree. 3$<br />
and are peculiar mysteries, known only to Nature<br />
and to Nature's God, to whom we are indebted f<strong>or</strong><br />
blessing we enjoy. This <strong>the</strong>me is <strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e<br />
peculiarly w<strong>or</strong>thy <strong>of</strong> attention.<br />
The Seven Liberal Arts and Sciences are<br />
Grammar, Logic, Rhet<strong>or</strong>ic, Arithmetic, Geometry,<br />
Astronomy, and Music.<br />
GRAMMAR<br />
Embraces <strong>the</strong> whole science <strong>of</strong> language, and<br />
teaches us to express our ideas in appropriate<br />
w<strong>or</strong>ds.<br />
LOGIC<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> art <strong>of</strong> c<strong>or</strong>rect thinking, and directs our<br />
inquiries after truth, by conceiving <strong>of</strong> things clearly<br />
and distinctly, <strong>the</strong>reby preventing us from being<br />
misled by similitude <strong>or</strong> sophistry.<br />
RHETORIC<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> art <strong>of</strong> speaking eloquently, in <strong>or</strong>der to<br />
lease, instruct, persuade, and<br />
E<br />
command ; and is<br />
y no means a common <strong>or</strong> an easy attainment.<br />
ARITHMETIC<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> science <strong>of</strong> numbers, and teaches us to<br />
compute <strong>or</strong> calculate c<strong>or</strong>rectly with expedition and<br />
ease.<br />
GEOMETRY<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> science <strong>of</strong> extension <strong>or</strong> magnitude, ab»<br />
stractedly considered, and treats <strong>of</strong> lines, surfaces,<br />
and solids; as all extension is distinguished by<br />
length, breadth, and thickness. A geometrical<br />
point has no parts, nei<strong>the</strong>r length, breadth, n<strong>or</strong><br />
thickness, and is <strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e indivisible. A line is
;<br />
36 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
length without breadth, and a superficies is length<br />
and breadth without thickness. The point is <strong>the</strong><br />
termination <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> line, <strong>the</strong> line is <strong>the</strong> termination<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> superficies, and <strong>the</strong> superficies <strong>the</strong> termination<br />
<strong>of</strong> a body.<br />
By this science, which is <strong>the</strong> foundation <strong>of</strong><br />
architecture, and <strong>the</strong> root <strong>of</strong> ma<strong>the</strong>matics, man is<br />
enabled to measure any place <strong>or</strong> distance, accessible<br />
<strong>or</strong> inaccessible* if it can only be seen.<br />
By it geographers show us <strong>the</strong> magnitude <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
earth, <strong>the</strong> extent <strong>of</strong> seas, empires, and provinces,<br />
&c. ; and by it astronomers are enabled to measure<br />
<strong>the</strong> distance, motions, and magnitudes <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
heavenly bodies, and regulate <strong>the</strong> duration <strong>of</strong><br />
times, seasons, years, and cycles.. Geometry is<br />
particularly recommended to <strong>the</strong> attention <strong>of</strong><br />
Masons, not only as a study <strong>of</strong> lines, superficies,<br />
and solids, but as a method <strong>of</strong> reasoning and<br />
deduction in <strong>the</strong> investigation <strong>of</strong> truth, and may<br />
be considered as a kind <strong>of</strong> natural logic. The contemplation<br />
<strong>of</strong> this science, in a m<strong>or</strong>al and comprehensive<br />
view, fills <strong>the</strong> mind with rapture. The<br />
flowers, <strong>the</strong> animals, <strong>the</strong> mountains, and every<br />
particle <strong>of</strong> matter which surround us, open a<br />
sublime field f<strong>or</strong> inquiry, and proves <strong>the</strong> wisdom<br />
Of God, and <strong>the</strong> existence <strong>of</strong> a First Cause.<br />
" I read His awful name, emblazoned high,<br />
With golden letters, on <strong>the</strong> Ulumiri*d sky<br />
N<strong>or</strong> less <strong>the</strong> mystic characters I see<br />
Wrought in each flower, inscribed on every tree;<br />
In every leaf that trembles on <strong>the</strong> breeze,<br />
I hear <strong>the</strong> voice <strong>of</strong> God among <strong>the</strong> trees."<br />
ASTRONOMY<br />
Is a mixed ma<strong>the</strong>matical science, and <strong>the</strong> most<br />
sublime that has ever been cultivated by man. It
I kindling<br />
The Second Degree. 37<br />
treats <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> celestial bodies, and aff<strong>or</strong>ds an interesting<br />
<strong>the</strong>me f<strong>or</strong> instruction and contemplation,<br />
<strong>the</strong> mind to praise, love, and ad<strong>or</strong>e <strong>the</strong><br />
Supreme Creat<strong>or</strong>.<br />
%i<br />
How distant some <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> nocturnal suns !<br />
So distant, says <strong>the</strong> sage, 'twere not absurd<br />
To doubt if beams, set out at Nature j birth)<br />
Are yet arrived at this s<strong>of</strong><strong>or</strong>eign w<strong>or</strong>ld ;<br />
Though nothing half so rapid as <strong>the</strong>irf<strong>light</strong>y<br />
An eye <strong>of</strong> awe and wonder let me roll.<br />
And rollf<strong>or</strong> ever. Who can satiate sight<br />
In such a scene, in such an ocean wide<br />
Of deep astonishment? Where depth , height,<br />
breadth,<br />
Are lost in <strong>the</strong>ir extremes ; and where, to count<br />
The thick-sown gl<strong>or</strong>ies in this field <strong>of</strong>fij-e,<br />
Perhaps a seraptis computation failsi*<br />
MUSIC<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> science <strong>of</strong> harmonious sounds, and is <strong>the</strong><br />
effect <strong>of</strong> vibration, propagated like <strong>light</strong>, from<br />
atom to atom, and depending on <strong>the</strong> reflection <strong>of</strong><br />
surrounding bodies and <strong>the</strong> density <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> air.<br />
" Of all <strong>the</strong> arts beneath <strong>the</strong> heaven<br />
That man hasfound, <strong>or</strong> God has given,<br />
None draws <strong>the</strong> soul so sweet azuay,<br />
As Music's melting, mystic lay ;<br />
S<strong>light</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> bliss above,<br />
It soo<strong>the</strong>s <strong>the</strong> spirit all to love"<br />
THE CHARGE.<br />
Being now advanced to <strong>the</strong> Second Degree <strong>of</strong><br />
Masonry, we congratulate you on your preferment.<br />
As you increase in knowledge, you will improve<br />
in social intercourse. In your new character, it is
38 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light<br />
expected that you will conf<strong>or</strong>m to <strong>the</strong> principles<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Order, by steadily persevering in <strong>the</strong> practice<br />
<strong>of</strong> every commendable virtue. You are not<br />
to palliate <strong>or</strong> aggravate <strong>the</strong> <strong>of</strong>fences <strong>of</strong> your<br />
Brethren; but in <strong>the</strong> decision <strong>of</strong> every trespass<br />
against our rules, you are to judge with candour,<br />
admonish with friendship, and reprehenc^ with<br />
justice. The study <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> liberal arts, which tends<br />
to polish and ad<strong>or</strong>n <strong>the</strong> mind, is earnestly recommended<br />
to your consideration, especially <strong>the</strong><br />
science <strong>of</strong> Geometry, which is enriched with useful<br />
knowledge ; while it proves <strong>the</strong> wonderful<br />
properties <strong>of</strong> nature, it demonstrates <strong>the</strong> m<strong>or</strong>e imp<strong>or</strong>tant<br />
truths <strong>of</strong> m<strong>or</strong>ality, which is <strong>the</strong> basis <strong>of</strong><br />
our art. We exh<strong>or</strong>t you to strive, like a skilful<br />
Bro<strong>the</strong>r, to sxcel in everything that is good and<br />
great ; and may you improve your intellectual<br />
faculties, and qualify yourself to become a useful<br />
member <strong>of</strong> society, and an <strong>or</strong>nament to <strong>the</strong> Craft.
—<br />
As Moses was commanded to pull <strong>the</strong> shoes from <strong>of</strong>f his feet, on<br />
Mount H<strong>or</strong>eb, because <strong>the</strong> ground on which he trod was sanctified by<br />
<strong>the</strong> presence <strong>of</strong> Divinity, so ehould a Mason advance to <strong>the</strong> Third<br />
Stage <strong>of</strong> Masonry, in <strong>the</strong> naked 2>aths <strong>of</strong> Truth, with steps <strong>of</strong> innocence,<br />
virtue, and humility.<br />
THE THIRD,<br />
OE<br />
MASTER MASONS' DEGREE,<br />
Represents man saved from <strong>the</strong> Grave <strong>of</strong> Iniquity,<br />
and raised to Salvation, by faith and <strong>the</strong><br />
grace <strong>of</strong> God. In this Degree we look beyond<br />
<strong>the</strong> narrow limits <strong>of</strong> this w<strong>or</strong>ld to that celestial<br />
sphere<br />
" Where high <strong>the</strong> heavenly temple stands',<br />
The house <strong>of</strong> God not made with hands"<br />
By a proper study <strong>of</strong> this Degree, we are taught to<br />
11 Contemplate when <strong>the</strong> sun declines,<br />
Our death with deep reflection ;<br />
And when again he rising shines ,<br />
Our day <strong>of</strong> resurrection"
40 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
Oh, thou all-seeing<br />
OPENING PRAYER.<br />
and omnipresent God, from<br />
everlasting to everlasting, we pray <strong>the</strong>e to direct<br />
ns how to know and serve <strong>the</strong>e aright, and bow<br />
bef<strong>or</strong>e thy throne <strong>of</strong> grace, f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> f<strong>or</strong>giveness <strong>of</strong><br />
our sins, that we may obtain fellowship with <strong>the</strong>e,<br />
and promote <strong>the</strong> honour and gl<strong>or</strong>y <strong>of</strong> thy most<br />
holy name. Amen, so mote it be.<br />
THE SANCTUM SANCTORUM.<br />
A Master Mason's Lodge duly opened, represents<br />
<strong>the</strong> Sanctum Sanct<strong>or</strong>um, <strong>or</strong> Holy <strong>of</strong> Holies,<br />
<strong>of</strong> King Solomon's Temple, where not even kings<br />
are allowed to enter unless duly initiated, and<br />
raised to that high and sublime privilege, by<br />
<strong>the</strong> help <strong>of</strong> God, his good name, and <strong>the</strong> united<br />
aid <strong>of</strong> square and compasses, which represent<br />
Virtue, M<strong>or</strong>ality, .Friendship, and Love.<br />
Having entered, in due f<strong>or</strong>m, a Master's Lodge,<br />
that beautiful passage <strong>of</strong> scripture (Eccl. xii. 1-7))<br />
representing <strong>the</strong> infirmities <strong>of</strong> old age, should aJ-
1<br />
The Third Degree. 4<br />
ways be remembered as an appropriate introduction<br />
to <strong>the</strong> sublime ceremonies <strong>of</strong> this Degree, and <strong>the</strong><br />
lessons taught by our emblematic death, and resurrection<br />
to life eternal.<br />
THE SYMBOLIC JEWELS<br />
Of a Master Mason are Friendship, M<strong>or</strong>ality,<br />
and Bro<strong>the</strong>rly Love. These he should wear as an<br />
ad<strong>or</strong>nment to his<br />
mind— M<strong>or</strong>ality being practical<br />
virtue, and <strong>the</strong> duty <strong>of</strong> life ; Friendship is personal<br />
kindness, which should extend beyond <strong>the</strong><br />
circle <strong>of</strong> private connections to universal philanthropy<br />
; and Bro<strong>the</strong>rly Love is <strong>the</strong> purest emanation<br />
<strong>of</strong> earthly friendship.<br />
THE WORKING TOOLS<br />
Are <strong>the</strong> Skirret, <strong>the</strong> Pencil, Compasses, and all<br />
<strong>the</strong> implements <strong>of</strong> Masonry, especially<br />
THE TROWEL,<br />
Which emblematically teaches us to spread <strong>the</strong><br />
cement <strong>of</strong> bro<strong>the</strong>rly love, unite in one bond <strong>of</strong><br />
social union, and diffuse <strong>the</strong> principle <strong>of</strong> universal<br />
benevolence to every member <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> human family.<br />
THE SKIRRET<br />
Is emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> straight and undeviating<br />
line <strong>of</strong> conduct, which directs us in <strong>the</strong> path which<br />
leads to imm<strong>or</strong>tality as revealed to us in <strong>the</strong> volume<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sacred Law.<br />
THE PENCIL<br />
Reminds us that our w<strong>or</strong>ds and actions are rec<strong>or</strong>ded<br />
by <strong>the</strong> Almighty Architect, to whom we<br />
must give an account <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m, whenever it is his<br />
pleasure to call on us to do so.
42 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
THE COMPASSES<br />
Peculiarly belong to this Degree, as when properly<br />
extended, <strong>the</strong>y embrace all <strong>the</strong> tenets <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
Order, limit our desires, and keep our passions<br />
within due bounds, so that we may, as Master<br />
Masons, lead a life <strong>of</strong> physical as well as m<strong>or</strong>al<br />
and intellectual integrity.<br />
HIRAM ABIFF.<br />
Bef<strong>or</strong>e proceeding fur<strong>the</strong>r with <strong>the</strong> M.M. Degree,<br />
it will be necessary to give an outline <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hist<strong>or</strong>ical,<br />
<strong>or</strong> ra<strong>the</strong>r alleg<strong>or</strong>ical, legend on which <strong>the</strong><br />
most imp<strong>or</strong>tant part <strong>of</strong> this Degree is founded, as<br />
it is intended to symbolise our faith in <strong>the</strong> resurrection<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> body, and <strong>the</strong> imm<strong>or</strong>tality <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
soul, arid gives an instance <strong>of</strong> firmness and fidelity<br />
to our duty in contrast with <strong>the</strong> cunning and deceitful<br />
passions which are so pernicious and destructive<br />
to all who indulge in <strong>the</strong>m. To assume<br />
<strong>the</strong> st<strong>or</strong>y to be literally a hist<strong>or</strong>ical fact instead <strong>of</strong><br />
an alleg<strong>or</strong>y, would be to rob <strong>the</strong> impressive ceremony<br />
<strong>of</strong> its beauty, and weaken <strong>the</strong> effect which<br />
is intended to be produced by it on <strong>the</strong> mind.<br />
The Bible inf<strong>or</strong>ms us that a person, <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> name<br />
<strong>of</strong> Hiram, was employed at <strong>the</strong> building <strong>of</strong> King<br />
Solomon's Temple (i Kings vii. 13; 2 Chron. ii.<br />
13-14) ; but nei<strong>the</strong>r <strong>the</strong> Bible, n<strong>or</strong> any o<strong>the</strong>r<br />
auth<strong>or</strong>ity, except Masonic tradition, gives any<br />
fur<strong>the</strong>r inf<strong>or</strong>mation respecting him, not even <strong>of</strong><br />
his death ; how it occurred, when, <strong>or</strong> where. Acc<strong>or</strong>ding<br />
to <strong>the</strong> Masonic legend, it was <strong>the</strong> custom<br />
<strong>of</strong> Hiram, as Grand Master <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>k, to enter<br />
<strong>the</strong> Sanctum Sanct<strong>or</strong>um every day at high twelve<br />
(when <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>kmen were called from labour to<br />
refreshment), to <strong>of</strong>fer up prayers, and ad<strong>or</strong>e <strong>the</strong>
The Third Degree. 43<br />
God in whom he put his trust. The Temple at<br />
length being nearly finished, and <strong>the</strong> Craftsmen<br />
not having obtained <strong>the</strong> Master's W<strong>or</strong>d, which was<br />
only known to King Solomon, Hiram King <strong>of</strong><br />
Tyre, and Hiram AbifT, fifteen <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m conspired<br />
to ext<strong>or</strong>t it from him, <strong>or</strong> take his life, <strong>the</strong>y being<br />
determined to have <strong>the</strong> W<strong>or</strong>d by any means, so<br />
as to enable <strong>the</strong>m to travel into f<strong>or</strong>eign countries,<br />
and obtain employment. Twelve <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>m, however,<br />
repented, and confessed to King Solomon<br />
what <strong>the</strong>y had conspired to do. It does not, however,<br />
appear that Solomon took any active steps<br />
to prevent <strong>the</strong> murder <strong>of</strong> Hiram, f<strong>or</strong> we are told<br />
that when he arrived at <strong>the</strong> Temple, all was in<br />
confusion, and, on making inquiry as to <strong>the</strong> cause,<br />
he was inf<strong>or</strong>med that <strong>the</strong> Grand Master, Hiram<br />
AbifT, was missing, and that <strong>the</strong>re were no plans<br />
on <strong>the</strong> trestle board f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong>m to w<strong>or</strong>k by. Recollecting<br />
what had been confessed to him that m<strong>or</strong>ning,<br />
and knowing that Hiram had always been<br />
punctual and regular, he began to fear that some<br />
mischief had been done to him ; he <strong>the</strong>n <strong>or</strong>dered<br />
<strong>the</strong> roll to be called, when three were found to be<br />
missing (namely, Jubela, Jubelo, and Jubelum).<br />
Solomon immediately caused an embargo to be<br />
laid on all <strong>the</strong> shipping, so as to prevent <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
escape to a f<strong>or</strong>eign country, and <strong>or</strong>dered fifteen<br />
Fellow Crafts to be sent in search <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> ruffians,<br />
and that if <strong>the</strong>y could not be found, <strong>the</strong> twelve<br />
who had confessed were to be considered as<br />
<strong>the</strong> murderers, and suffer acc<strong>or</strong>dingly. Those<br />
who had been sent west, on coming near <strong>the</strong> coast<br />
<strong>of</strong> Joppa, heard voices issuing from a cavern in<br />
<strong>the</strong> rocks, and on listening, discovered that <strong>the</strong><br />
desperadoes had been unable to obtain a passage<br />
to Ethiopia, <strong>or</strong> escape from <strong>the</strong>ir own gountrv.
44 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
Jubela was first heard to exclaim, " Oh that my<br />
throat had been cut across, <strong>or</strong> my tongue t<strong>or</strong>n<br />
out by <strong>the</strong> root, and my body buried in <strong>the</strong> sands<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> sea at low water, mark, ere I had been, accessary<br />
to <strong>the</strong> death <strong>of</strong> our Grand Master !<br />
"<br />
Jubelo next exclaimed, " Oh that my heart had<br />
been t<strong>or</strong>n from my breast, and my body given to<br />
<strong>the</strong> wild beasts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> field and <strong>the</strong> vultures <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
air, ere I had conspired to take <strong>the</strong> life <strong>of</strong> so good<br />
a man !!"<br />
Jubelum, in his despair, cried, "Oh that my<br />
body had been severed in two, my bowels t<strong>or</strong>n out,<br />
burnt to ashes, and scattered by <strong>the</strong> winds <strong>of</strong><br />
heaven, so that <strong>the</strong>re might not remain <strong>the</strong> least<br />
trace <strong>or</strong> remembrance <strong>of</strong> so vile a wretch as I, who<br />
struck <strong>the</strong> fatal blow, and caused <strong>the</strong> death <strong>of</strong> our<br />
!<br />
Grand Master Hiram AbifT ! ! " On hearing <strong>the</strong>se<br />
exclamations, <strong>the</strong> searchers rushed suddenly <strong>upon</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong>m, took <strong>the</strong>m prisoners, and conveyed <strong>the</strong>m to<br />
Jerusalem, where <strong>the</strong>y confessed <strong>the</strong>ir guilt, and<br />
were executed, each acc<strong>or</strong>ding to <strong>the</strong> sentence<br />
passed from his own lips. . Fifteen Craftsmen were<br />
again assembled, and, clo<strong>the</strong>d in white aprons<br />
and gloves in token <strong>of</strong> innocence, were sent,<br />
three East, three West, three N<strong>or</strong>th, three South,<br />
and three in and about <strong>the</strong> Temple, to search f<strong>or</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> body <strong>of</strong> Hiram, which was discovered in an<br />
accidental manner, by one who became wearied<br />
and sat down to rest on <strong>the</strong> brow <strong>of</strong> a hill. On<br />
rising, he caught hold <strong>of</strong> a sprig <strong>of</strong> cassia, which<br />
easily gave way, and showed that <strong>the</strong> earth had<br />
been recently moved. He called f<strong>or</strong> his companions,<br />
who came to his assistance, and discovered<br />
<strong>the</strong> body <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir Master very indecently<br />
interred. With due respect <strong>the</strong>y again covered<br />
<strong>the</strong> bedy, and hastened to acquaint King Solomon,
The Third Degree. s 45<br />
who, on hearing <strong>the</strong> melancholy intelligence, raised<br />
his hands, and exclaimed "Oh L<strong>or</strong>d my God, is<br />
<strong>the</strong>re no help f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> widow's son," and dropped<br />
<strong>the</strong>m in such a manner as indicated <strong>the</strong> grief into<br />
which he was thrown. Immediately recovering<br />
himself, he commanded <strong>the</strong> body to be raised and<br />
conveyed to Jerusalem, to be interred in a sepulchre,<br />
as near <strong>the</strong> Sanctum Sanct<strong>or</strong>um as <strong>the</strong> Jewish<br />
law would permit, in honour <strong>of</strong> his rank and exalted<br />
talents.<br />
THE THRE3 RUFFIANS<br />
In <strong>the</strong> f<strong>or</strong>egoing alleg<strong>or</strong>y are typical <strong>of</strong> Deceit,<br />
(<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> devil,) Avarice, and Death, who invaded<br />
man's <strong>or</strong>iginal innocent state, and laid him prostrate<br />
in <strong>the</strong> grave <strong>of</strong> spiritual death.<br />
The law came to his aid, but failed to raise his<br />
c<strong>or</strong>ruptible nature.<br />
Idolatry <strong>of</strong>fered her assistance, but also proved<br />
a slip, and failed to effect his m<strong>or</strong>al resurrection.<br />
At length <strong>the</strong> Gospel, '* marked with <strong>the</strong> seal <strong>of</strong><br />
high Divinity,'' descended from heaven, and pronounced<br />
<strong>the</strong> omnific w<strong>or</strong>d, which raised him from<br />
a spiritual death to everlasting life, robbed death<br />
<strong>of</strong> its sting, and swallowed it up in vict<strong>or</strong>y (Isaiah<br />
xxv. 8; 1 C<strong>or</strong>. xv. 54-57). Thus a Master Mason<br />
represents man, saved from <strong>the</strong> grave <strong>of</strong> iniquity<br />
and c<strong>or</strong>ruption, and raised to <strong>the</strong> sphere <strong>of</strong><br />
righteousness and salvation, where peace and innocence<br />
f<strong>or</strong> ever dwell, in <strong>the</strong> realms <strong>of</strong> a boundless<br />
eternity.<br />
THE MONUMENT<br />
Erected to <strong>the</strong> mem<strong>or</strong>y <strong>of</strong> Hiram was a breken<br />
column <strong>of</strong> white marble supp<strong>or</strong>ting a book, with<br />
a virgin weeping over <strong>the</strong>m, an m*n in hei left
46 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light<br />
hand, and a sprig <strong>of</strong> acacia in her right Time<br />
standing behind her with his ringers entwined in<br />
<strong>the</strong> ringlets <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> virgin's hair.<br />
THE BROKEN COLUMN<br />
Is emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> frailty <strong>of</strong> man, and all<br />
things human. " To everything <strong>the</strong>re is a season,<br />
and a time to every purpose under <strong>the</strong> sun" (Eccl.<br />
chap. iii.).<br />
THE OPEN BOOK<br />
Is emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> revealed will <strong>of</strong> God,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> Book <strong>of</strong> Nature, open f<strong>or</strong> our investigation.<br />
" See through this air, this ocean, and this earthy<br />
All matter quick, and bursting into birth"<br />
THE VIRGIN WEEPING OVER THEM<br />
Beautifully illustrates <strong>the</strong> melancholy contemplation<br />
that " Thy doom is written, dust thou<br />
art, and shalt to dust return ;" f<strong>or</strong> no sooner do<br />
we begin to live, than Death begins to follow us,<br />
b<strong>or</strong>ne on <strong>the</strong> wings <strong>of</strong> Time, whose scy<strong>the</strong> is ever<br />
cutting sh<strong>or</strong>t our string <strong>of</strong> moments ; even now<br />
his fingers are entwined in our vitals, and will soon<br />
cut <strong>the</strong> brittle thread <strong>of</strong> life.<br />
" How loved, how valued once, avails <strong>the</strong>e not,<br />
To whom related, <strong>or</strong> by whom begot ;<br />
A heap <strong>of</strong> dust alone remainsf<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong>e,<br />
'<br />
Tis all ihou art ! and all <strong>the</strong>proud shall be."<br />
THE SPRIG OF ACACIA,<br />
With its graceful drooping leaves, like <strong>the</strong> weeping<br />
willow, is an emblem <strong>of</strong> tender Sympathy and<br />
never-dying Affection, and being an evergreen, is
—<br />
The Third Degree. 47<br />
also emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> imm<strong>or</strong>tal Soul that never<br />
dies ; and this thought is calculated, in <strong>the</strong> hope<br />
<strong>of</strong> a gl<strong>or</strong>ious imm<strong>or</strong>tality, to dispel <strong>the</strong> gloomy contemplation<br />
and fear <strong>of</strong> death.<br />
11<br />
Death cannot come<br />
To him untimely who is fit to die ;<br />
The less <strong>of</strong>this cold w<strong>or</strong>ld, <strong>the</strong> m<strong>or</strong>e <strong>of</strong>heaven ,•<br />
The briefer life, <strong>the</strong> earlier imm<strong>or</strong>tality."<br />
THE FIVE POINTS OF FELLOWSHIP,<br />
On which every Master Mason is raised from<br />
his emblematic death, are<br />
First, Hand in hand ; I will respect you as a<br />
bro<strong>the</strong>r, if I find yoa w<strong>or</strong>thy.<br />
Second, * * *; That I will travel through<br />
#<br />
danger and difficulties to assist a fellow creature in<br />
distress, particularly a w<strong>or</strong>thy Bro<strong>the</strong>r, if not detrimental<br />
to myself <strong>or</strong> connections.<br />
Third, * * * ; In my daily prayers to<br />
Almighty God, I will remember a Bro<strong>the</strong>r's welfare<br />
as my own.
4$ <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light<br />
Fourth, * * * ; That a Bro<strong>the</strong>r's just<br />
and lawful secrets will I keep as my own, in <strong>the</strong><br />
sacred reposit<strong>or</strong>y <strong>of</strong> my heart.<br />
* *<br />
Fifth, *; That I will supp<strong>or</strong>t a<br />
Bro<strong>the</strong>r's character in his absence as I would in<br />
Thus are we linked toge<strong>the</strong>r by <strong>the</strong><br />
his presence.<br />
indissoluble chain <strong>of</strong> Affection, Relief, Truth,<br />
Justice, and Bro<strong>the</strong>rly Love
;<br />
;<br />
The Emblems<br />
Particularly recommended to <strong>the</strong> attention <strong>of</strong><br />
Master Masons inculcate many a useful lesson, as<br />
showing us how we may become examples in our<br />
religious, civil, and m<strong>or</strong>al conduct.<br />
THE MALLET<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> Power, m<strong>or</strong>ally teaching us<br />
to c<strong>or</strong>rect irregularities, and reduce man to a proper<br />
level.<br />
THE THREE STEPS<br />
Are emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> three Masonic Degrees,<br />
<strong>or</strong> stages <strong>of</strong> human life—viz., Youth, Manhood,<br />
and Old Age ; and also <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> three periods <strong>of</strong><br />
our existence—viz., Time, Death, and Eternity.<br />
" What is <strong>the</strong> gift <strong>of</strong> Life<br />
To him who reads with heaven-instructed eye ?<br />
9<br />
Tis <strong>the</strong>first dawning <strong>of</strong> eternity<br />
Thefuture heaven just breaking on <strong>the</strong> sight<br />
The glimmering <strong>of</strong> a still increasing <strong>light</strong>."<br />
THE POT OF INCENSE<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> a Pure Heart, glowing with<br />
fervent love, and ascending to heaven in perfumes<br />
<strong>of</strong> filial gratitude, like <strong>the</strong> cloud <strong>of</strong> celestial<br />
white that filled <strong>the</strong> Temple at Jerusalem,<br />
" As though an angel in his upwardf<strong>light</strong>,<br />
Had left his mantle floating in mid air"
50 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
THE BEEHIVE<br />
Is an emblem <strong>of</strong> Industry.<br />
Idleness, which is<br />
<strong>the</strong> parent <strong>of</strong> imm<strong>or</strong>ality and ruin, is severely reproved<br />
by this symbol. By industry we may enjoy<br />
all <strong>the</strong> necessaries and even <strong>the</strong> luxuries <strong>of</strong> life,<br />
avoid vice and temptation, and merit respect, by<br />
adding knowledge to <strong>the</strong> understanding, so that<br />
we may not be considered a useless drone in <strong>the</strong><br />
busy hive <strong>of</strong> nature.<br />
THE BOOK OF CONSTITUTIONS,<br />
GUARDED BY THE TYLER'S SWORD,<br />
Should remind us to be guarded in our Thoughts,<br />
W<strong>or</strong>ds, and Actions ; f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> Sw<strong>or</strong>d <strong>of</strong> Almighty<br />
Vengeance is drawn to reward iniquity.<br />
THE SWORD POINTING TO A NAKED HEART<br />
Reminds us that, although our thoughts and<br />
actions may be hid from <strong>the</strong> eyes <strong>of</strong> man, Justice<br />
will sooner <strong>or</strong> later overtake us. Let us, <strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e,<br />
be ever ready to pass <strong>the</strong> Grim Tyler <strong>of</strong><br />
Eternity without fear, when we are called <strong>upon</strong> to<br />
serve our Master in Heaven.<br />
THE ALL-SEEING EYE<br />
Of <strong>the</strong> Incomprehensible, Omnipotent God !<br />
whose being extends through boundless space,<br />
and " penetrates <strong>the</strong> very inmost recesses <strong>of</strong> subterranean<br />
cells," must see and know our Thoughts<br />
and Actions, and will reward us acc<strong>or</strong>ding to our<br />
merits.
The Third Degree, 51<br />
THE FORTY-SEVENTH PROBLEM OF EUCLID.<br />
The<strong>or</strong>em. In any right angled triangle, <strong>the</strong><br />
square described <strong>upon</strong> <strong>the</strong> side subtending <strong>the</strong><br />
right angle is equal to <strong>the</strong> squares described <strong>upon</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> sides which contain <strong>the</strong> right angle.<br />
This problem, which is <strong>of</strong> great use in geometrical<br />
solutions and demonstrations <strong>of</strong> quantities, is<br />
said to be <strong>the</strong> invention <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> philosopher Pythag<strong>or</strong>as,<br />
and which, in <strong>the</strong> joy <strong>of</strong> his heart, he called<br />
Eureka (I have found it), and sacrificed a hecatomb<br />
to commem<strong>or</strong>ate <strong>the</strong> discovery. It is emblematical<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> symmetry and beauty <strong>of</strong> Creation,<br />
and <strong>the</strong> unalterable laws <strong>of</strong> Divine wisdom and<br />
infinite power which govern every atom <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
universe. It should remind Masons that <strong>the</strong>y<br />
ought to love and study <strong>the</strong> arts and sciences.
,<br />
52 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light<br />
THE ARK<br />
Is an emblem <strong>of</strong> Safety, and our trust in God,<br />
to waft us securely o'er <strong>the</strong> tempestuous sea <strong>of</strong> life<br />
to that harbour where—<br />
" From every snare attd evil 7v<strong>or</strong>k<br />
His grace shall us defe7td,<br />
And to his heavenly kingdojn safe<br />
Shall bring us in <strong>the</strong> end. "<br />
THE ANCHOR<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> a well grounded Hope in<br />
a Gl<strong>or</strong>ious Imm<strong>or</strong>tality, when mo<strong>or</strong>ed f<strong>or</strong> ever<br />
to that sh<strong>or</strong>e, where "The wicked cease from<br />
troubling, and <strong>the</strong> weary are at rest."<br />
THE HOUR GLASS<br />
Is an emblem <strong>of</strong> Human Life. The sand in <strong>the</strong><br />
glass passes swiftly, though almost imperceptibly,<br />
away. So do <strong>the</strong> moments <strong>of</strong> our lives, till <strong>the</strong><br />
wave <strong>of</strong> Time is swallowed up by <strong>the</strong> billows <strong>of</strong><br />
Eternity.<br />
" What are our ages but a few brief waves<br />
From <strong>the</strong> vast ocean <strong>of</strong>Eternity,<br />
That break <strong>upon</strong> <strong>the</strong> sh<strong>or</strong>es <strong>of</strong> this our w<strong>or</strong>ld<br />
And so ebb back into <strong>the</strong> immensepr<strong>of</strong>ound"<br />
u Emblem <strong>of</strong> life! which, still as we survey,<br />
Seems motionless, yet ever glides away."<br />
THE SCYTHE<br />
Is <strong>the</strong> emblem <strong>of</strong> Time, which cuts <strong>the</strong> brittle<br />
thread <strong>of</strong> life, and launches us into eternity.<br />
" Redeem thine hours— <strong>the</strong> space is brief—<br />
While in thy glass <strong>the</strong> sandgrains shiver<br />
And<br />
;<br />
measureless thy joy <strong>or</strong> grief<br />
When Time and thou shaltpartf<strong>or</strong> ever "
The Third Degree. 53<br />
THE SPADE<br />
Is. an emblem reminding us that "All nature<br />
dies and lives again," and that this w<strong>or</strong>ld is but <strong>the</strong><br />
tilling ground <strong>of</strong> heaven, to cultivate our m<strong>or</strong>als<br />
and improve in knowledge, so as to streng<strong>the</strong>n our<br />
faith, look beyond <strong>the</strong> grave, and rely on <strong>the</strong> grace<br />
<strong>of</strong> God 10 raise our living souls to <strong>the</strong> regions <strong>of</strong><br />
everlasting blessedness.<br />
" Haste, seize <strong>the</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>fered hope <strong>of</strong> heaven.<br />
While life and <strong>light</strong> are yet thine own ;<br />
Swift as <strong>the</strong> passing cloud <strong>of</strong> even,<br />
Time glides along—and thou art gone. "<br />
THE COFFIN, SKULL, AND CROSS-BONES<br />
Are emblems <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> inevitable destiny <strong>of</strong> our<br />
M<strong>or</strong>tal Bodies. The grave yawns to receive us :<br />
"And creeping things shall revel in <strong>the</strong>ir spoil,<br />
And fit our clay to fertilise <strong>the</strong> soil."<br />
" The grave, that never spoke bef<strong>or</strong>e,<br />
Hath found at length a tongue to chide ;<br />
Oh listen I I will speak no m<strong>or</strong>e—<br />
Be silent Pride " !<br />
THE SPRIG OF ACACIA<br />
Is an emblem <strong>of</strong> Imm<strong>or</strong>tality. (See page 46).<br />
*<br />
' The dead are like <strong>the</strong> stars by day<br />
Withdrawn from m<strong>or</strong>tal eye,<br />
But not extinct, <strong>the</strong>y hold <strong>the</strong>ir way<br />
In gl<strong>or</strong>y through <strong>the</strong> sky."<br />
11 Spiritsfrom bondage thus setfree,<br />
Vanish amidst immensity,<br />
Where human thought, like human sight,<br />
Fails to pursue <strong>the</strong>ir trackless f<strong>light</strong> ',"
The<br />
Ornaments<br />
Of this Degree are <strong>the</strong> P<strong>or</strong>ch, <strong>the</strong> Chequered<br />
Pavement, and <strong>the</strong> D<strong>or</strong>mer, <strong>or</strong> Window.<br />
THE PORCH,<br />
Or Entrance to <strong>the</strong> Holy <strong>of</strong> Holies, will remind<br />
<strong>the</strong> thoughtful Master Mason <strong>of</strong> his emblematic<br />
death, and that <strong>the</strong> grave is <strong>the</strong> P<strong>or</strong>ch which all<br />
must pass through to <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld <strong>of</strong> spirits, where<br />
w<strong>or</strong>thy servants only will find admittance to <strong>the</strong><br />
Sanctum Sanct<strong>or</strong>um <strong>of</strong> that Celestial Lodge where<br />
<strong>the</strong> Grand Master <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Universe presides.<br />
THE CHEQUERED PAVEMENT<br />
F<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> High Priest to walk on, and burn incense<br />
on <strong>the</strong> golden altar, praying <strong>the</strong> Almighty f<strong>or</strong> pros*<br />
perity and peace, is emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> alternative,<br />
<strong>or</strong> choice between two things, i.e.. Good <strong>or</strong><br />
Evil, Light <strong>or</strong> Darkness, Pleasure <strong>or</strong> Pain, Heaven<br />
<strong>or</strong> Hell ; f<strong>or</strong> " ye cannot serve God and Mammon,<br />
if ye reject one, ye must take <strong>the</strong> o<strong>the</strong>r."<br />
" When beneath to <strong>the</strong>ir darkness <strong>the</strong> wicked are<br />
driven^<br />
May ourjustified soulsfind a welcome iu heaven"<br />
THE DORMER,<br />
Or Window, which gives <strong>light</strong> to <strong>the</strong> Sanctum<br />
Sanct<strong>or</strong>um, is emblematical <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Fountain <strong>of</strong><br />
Wisdom, which en<strong>light</strong>ens <strong>the</strong> mind, and dispels<br />
<strong>the</strong> gloomy darkness <strong>of</strong> ign<strong>or</strong>ance, and instructs<br />
us how to die.
<strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light 55<br />
u Grant that in life's last hour my soul may crave,<br />
N<strong>or</strong> crave in vain, his love to <strong>light</strong> me through <strong>the</strong><br />
grave"<br />
CHARGE FOR THE THIRD DEGREE.<br />
Bro<strong>the</strong>r,—As you are now raised to <strong>the</strong> High<br />
and Sublime Degree <strong>of</strong> a Master Mason, I would<br />
ask you to take a retrospective glance at <strong>the</strong> various<br />
Degrees and Ceremonies which you have passed<br />
through, and would exh<strong>or</strong>t you to study and practise<br />
<strong>the</strong> m<strong>or</strong>al precepts <strong>the</strong>rein laid down. In <strong>the</strong><br />
First Degree, youth is represented as ign<strong>or</strong>ant and<br />
blind, groping in mental darkness f<strong>or</strong> intellectual<br />
<strong>light</strong>, which darkness can only be dispelled by<br />
years <strong>of</strong> study and experience, bef<strong>or</strong>e its beams<br />
can illuminate <strong>the</strong> mind.<br />
We are also reminded that, in <strong>the</strong> sight <strong>of</strong> God,<br />
all mankind are equal, by entering <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld naked<br />
from <strong>the</strong> womb, and so returning back to our<br />
mo<strong>the</strong>r earth (Job i. 21), leaving wealth and titles,<br />
honour and power, behind us, as w<strong>or</strong>thless baubles,<br />
<strong>of</strong> no value <strong>or</strong> avail to purchase place <strong>or</strong> happiness<br />
in <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld to come. F<strong>or</strong> this reason you were<br />
taught to have faith in God, hope in imm<strong>or</strong>tality,<br />
and to be charitable to all mankind. Chanty, you<br />
are to remember, is <strong>the</strong> chief <strong>of</strong> every social virtue,<br />
and ought to be <strong>the</strong> distinguishing characteristic <strong>of</strong><br />
every Mason ;<br />
yet, even with charity, it is necessary<br />
to be cautious, f<strong>or</strong> it is an err<strong>or</strong> to dispense<br />
alms indiscriminatelyto all supplicants, whereby<br />
<strong>the</strong> hypocrite and knave may eat <strong>the</strong> bread which<br />
virtue in distress ought to be relieved by. Charity<br />
is <strong>of</strong>ten abused, f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong>re are many miscreants who<br />
infest our streets and do<strong>or</strong>s with <strong>the</strong>ir imp<strong>or</strong>tunities,<br />
many even showing <strong>the</strong>ir s<strong>or</strong>es and dist<strong>or</strong>ted<br />
bodies, to prompt a false compassion, with which
;<br />
56 <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays <strong>of</strong> Light.<br />
ill-gotten gains <strong>the</strong>y revel away <strong>the</strong> hoivts <strong>of</strong> night<br />
in debauchery. Charity, when misapplied,' loses<br />
<strong>the</strong> dress <strong>of</strong> virtue and assumes <strong>the</strong> garb <strong>of</strong> folly<br />
<strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e, let <strong>the</strong> bounties <strong>of</strong> your benevolence be<br />
ruled by discretion, and bestowed on such objects<br />
as Merit and Virtue in distress, Innocence in tears,<br />
Widows and Orphans left helpless on <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>ld,<br />
Old age, and Industrious persons whom misf<strong>or</strong>tune<br />
has overtaken and reduced to poverty and want<br />
f<strong>or</strong>, if angels in heaven weep, it is f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong> pangs<br />
<strong>of</strong> poverty and want which rend <strong>the</strong> hearts <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
deserving po<strong>or</strong> ; <strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e, we beseech you not to<br />
withhold your mite <strong>or</strong> assistance when in your<br />
power to relieve distress, <strong>or</strong> soo<strong>the</strong> <strong>the</strong> unhappy<br />
(i C<strong>or</strong>. xii. i). Study God in nature, and <strong>the</strong>re<br />
you will see Wisdom, Strength, and Beauty in all<br />
his w<strong>or</strong>ks as pillars supp<strong>or</strong>ting <strong>the</strong> great temple <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> universe. In <strong>the</strong> Second Degree, you see Manhood<br />
labouring to overcome <strong>the</strong> difficulties which<br />
beset him in <strong>the</strong> pursuit <strong>of</strong> knowledge, and thus<br />
<strong>the</strong> intellectual faculties are employed in promoting<br />
<strong>the</strong> gl<strong>or</strong>y <strong>of</strong> God, and <strong>the</strong> good <strong>of</strong> man. In <strong>the</strong><br />
high and sublime Degree <strong>of</strong> a Master Mason, you<br />
are taught to look beyond <strong>the</strong> narrow limits <strong>of</strong><br />
this w<strong>or</strong>ld, and see man raised from <strong>the</strong> grave <strong>of</strong><br />
iniquity, by Faith and <strong>the</strong> grace <strong>of</strong> God, to Everlasting<br />
life and Blessedness. Let us, <strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e,<br />
study our emblems, and practise <strong>the</strong>ir precepts, so<br />
that we may, as children <strong>of</strong> <strong>light</strong>, turn our backs<br />
on w<strong>or</strong>ks <strong>of</strong> Darkness, Obscenity, Drunkenness,<br />
and all manner <strong>of</strong> evil, and live as we ought, practising<br />
Charity, Benevolence, Justice, Temperance,<br />
Chastity, and Bro<strong>the</strong>rly Love.<br />
CONCLUSION.<br />
Having thus given a general summary <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>
;<br />
The Third Degree. 57<br />
Masonic System <strong>of</strong> M<strong>or</strong>ality, let us hope that it<br />
will be m<strong>or</strong>e than ever esteemed, and valued with<br />
increased reverential regard, by all who have<br />
traced <strong>the</strong> Royal Art from <strong>the</strong> commencement <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> First to <strong>the</strong> end <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> Third Degree.<br />
Acc<strong>or</strong>ding to <strong>the</strong> plan <strong>of</strong> Masonry, <strong>the</strong> mirr<strong>or</strong><br />
is as it were held up to IN ature, that we may review<br />
<strong>the</strong> helplessness <strong>of</strong> our Youth, <strong>the</strong> vanity <strong>of</strong><br />
<strong>the</strong> W<strong>or</strong>ld, and <strong>the</strong> Trust we ought to put in God<br />
that <strong>the</strong> " <strong>Reflected</strong> Rays" from <strong>the</strong> Mirr<strong>or</strong> may<br />
determine us to pursue such knowledge, and practise<br />
those virtues and precepts which will secure<br />
<strong>the</strong> respect <strong>of</strong> every true Mason and <strong>the</strong> approbation<br />
<strong>of</strong> all good men.<br />
* '<br />
Genius <strong>of</strong> Masonry descend^<br />
And ivith <strong>the</strong>e bring thy spotless train ;<br />
Constant our sacred rites attend^<br />
While we ad<strong>or</strong>e thy peaceful reign"
THE<br />
MASONIC<br />
MAGAZINE,<br />
A Monthly Digest <strong>of</strong> <strong>Freemasonry</strong> in all its<br />
Branches,<br />
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PUBLISHING OFFICE:<br />
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}<br />
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THE<br />
COSMOPOLITAN<br />
'<br />
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IT<br />
CONTAINS<br />
Lists <strong>of</strong> Lodges, Chapters, Conclaves, Grand Councils,<br />
and K.T. Precept<strong>or</strong>ies, .<br />
with <strong>the</strong> names <strong>of</strong><br />
Officers in England and Wales, Scotland, Ireland,<br />
France, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Denmark,<br />
P<strong>or</strong>tugal, Sweden and N<strong>or</strong>way, Greece, Turkey,<br />
New Brunswick, Venezuela, Ne<strong>the</strong>rlands, British<br />
Columbia, Peru, Quebec, Canada, America, &c.<br />
The London Meetings <strong>of</strong> every Degree are given<br />
in <strong>the</strong> Mem<strong>or</strong>andum space <strong>of</strong> each day. The<br />
Country Lodges appear in Towns, alphabetically<br />
arranged. It also contains <strong>the</strong> Charge and Entered<br />
Apprentice s Song.<br />
Office :— 198,<br />
FLEET STREET, LONDON,
—<br />
-<br />
—<br />
Cfje SWnrq nf /mtitamttj :<br />
From its Origin to <strong>the</strong> Present Day.<br />
Drawn from <strong>the</strong> best sources and <strong>the</strong> most recent investigations<br />
By Bro. J. G. FINDEL,<br />
Second Edition. Revised, and Preface written by<br />
Bro. D. MURRAY LYON,<br />
One vol., 800 pages 8vo., with an Index. Cloth gilt. Price 10s. 66.<br />
"This book is a strictly hist<strong>or</strong>ical one, from which all is excluded<br />
that is not based <strong>upon</strong> ascertained <strong>or</strong> probable fact "<br />
Builder.<br />
"Of its value to Freemasons, as a detailed hist<strong>or</strong>y <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong>ir<br />
Bro<strong>the</strong>rhood, it is not possible to speak too highly." Public<br />
Opinion.<br />
"We know <strong>of</strong> no w<strong>or</strong>k which so clearly sets bef<strong>or</strong>e us our<br />
amount <strong>of</strong> knowledge up to <strong>the</strong> present time on <strong>the</strong> great question<br />
<strong>of</strong> Masonic Archaeology, and <strong>the</strong>re can be little doubt that what<br />
Preston's w<strong>or</strong>k is to English <strong>Freemasonry</strong>, Findel's w<strong>or</strong>k is to<br />
cosmopolitan <strong>Freemasonry</strong>. Indeed no student in Masonry can<br />
now dispense with it, and it is a perfect st<strong>or</strong>ehouse both <strong>of</strong><br />
Masonic evidence and Masonic illustrations. We earnestly<br />
recommend all <strong>the</strong> lodges in this country to obtain a copy f<strong>or</strong> <strong>the</strong><br />
lodge library bef<strong>or</strong>e <strong>the</strong> w<strong>or</strong>k is bought up f<strong>or</strong> America; and we<br />
believe that no Mason will rise from <strong>the</strong> perusal <strong>of</strong> its pages<br />
without a higher idea both <strong>of</strong> <strong>the</strong> hist<strong>or</strong>ical truth and intrinsic<br />
value <strong>of</strong> <strong>Freemasonry</strong>, and <strong>of</strong> fraternal regard and recognition<br />
to <strong>the</strong> latest and not <strong>the</strong> least well-inf<strong>or</strong>med <strong>or</strong> effective <strong>of</strong> our<br />
Masonic hist<strong>or</strong>ians. The present century has produced no such<br />
equal, in auth<strong>or</strong>ity and usefulness, to <strong>the</strong> great w<strong>or</strong>k <strong>of</strong> our Bro.<br />
Findel, and we wish him and it, in all <strong>of</strong> fraternal sympathy and<br />
kindly intent, many earnest readers, and m<strong>or</strong>e grateful<br />
students<br />
—The " Masonic Magazine.<br />
" The auth<strong>or</strong> seems to have fairly exhausted <strong>the</strong> subject."<br />
A<strong>the</strong>naeum.<br />
"This volume is <strong>the</strong> hist<strong>or</strong>y <strong>of</strong> Masonrv par excellence.<br />
Fverv interested person may reeaH it, <strong>the</strong>ref<strong>or</strong>e, as <strong>the</strong> present<br />
text-book on <strong>the</strong> subject."—Manchester Guardian.<br />
BftO. GEORGE KENNINC,<br />
198, FUE-ET STREET, LONDON.
Now Ready.<br />
Price $s. , %vo., handsomely bound.<br />
LIFE OF CONSTANTINE<br />
WRITTEN IN GREEK<br />
By EUSEBIUS PAMPHILTJS<br />
(Bishop <strong>of</strong> Ccesarea in Palestine).<br />
Done into English from that Edition set f<strong>or</strong>th by<br />
Valesius and printed in Paris in <strong>the</strong> year 1659.<br />
PREFACE BY<br />
BROS. R. WENTWORTH LITTLE, TREAS.<br />
GEN., AND THE REV. A.F. A. WOODFORD;<br />
Past<br />
Grand Chaplain.<br />
WITH<br />
Engravings <strong>of</strong> Constantine ; The Duke <strong>of</strong> Sussex,<br />
P.G. Sov. ; L<strong>or</strong>d Rancliffe, P.G. Sov. ; Earl<br />
Bective M.P*, P.G. Sov. ; Sir Fredk. Martin<br />
Williams, Bart., M.P., M.G., Sov.; &c, &c.<br />
LONDON:<br />
GEORGE KENNING, 198, FLEET STREET
_I<br />
NT<br />
CJ<br />
si<br />
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